These statistics are taken directly from the American Obesity Association web-site:
"In the past 30 years, the occurrence of overweight in children has doubled and it is now estimated that one in five children in the US is overweight. Increases in the prevalence of overweight are also being seen in younger children, including preschoolers. Prevalence of overweight is especially higher among certain populations such as Hispanic, African American and Native Americans where some studies indicate prevalence of >85th percentile of 35-40%. Also, while more children are becoming overweight, the heaviest children are getting even heavier. As a result, childhood overweight is regarded as the most common prevalent nutritional disorder of US children and adolescents, and one of the most common problems seen by pediatricians."
So, how did we get here? There are many ways, of course. Here are just a few:
● Food Choices - diets higher in calories (including fats and simple sugars) and lower in fruits and vegetables are linked with overweight
● Physical Activity vs. Sedentary Activity - less physical activity and more time spent participating in activities such as watching TV results in less energy expenditure
● Parental Obesity - children of obese parents are more likely to be overweight themselves. Parental obesity reflects a family environment that promotes excess eating and insufficient activity.
● Eating Patterns - skipping meals or failure to maintain a regular eating schedule can result in increased intakes when food is eaten.
● Excessive weight gain during pregnancy - Several studies have shown that excessive maternal weight gain during pregnancy is associated with increased birth weight and overweight later in life.
● Formula Feeding - Breast feeding is generally recommended over formula feeding. Although the exact mechanism in unknown, several long-term studies suggest that breast feeding may prevent excess weight gain as children grow.
● Parental Eating and Physical Activity Habits - Parents with poor nutritional habits and who lead sedentary lifestyles role model these behaviors for their children, thereby creating an "obesigenic" home environment.
And, of course, I cannot miss the most obvious one--MEDIA!!! Just review these two recent Burger King commercials to see what I am talking about.
With messages like these, played before our kids' eyes day in and day out, how can we expect anything different than what we are seeing... The answer, of course, lies within us and the way we raise our children.
Until next time: Eat Healthy!!! Be Happy!!!
