Childhood Obesity Has Become An Epidemic in America and Around the World

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Obesity is not just a problem of adults. These days many children are also obese. Obesity in children is measured through the percentile body mass index instead of the body max index which is used for adults. According to obesity statistics, childhood obesity has tripled in the last three decades and childhood obesity is on the rise until now. The dangers of childhood obesity are also increasing. This is the reason why many childhood obesity grants are being given to several organizations. These organizations usually do a lot of studies and researches to come up with the best ways to prevent and treat childhood obesity.

Causes of Childhood Obesity
There are several causes of childhood obesity. Just like in adults, improper eating habits are also a major factor. Children who are fond of eating junk foods and fast foods will probably become obese. Excessive snacking is very common among children these days. Parents sometimes do not have the time to prepare healthy snacks for their children. Instead, parents just buy processed and prepared snacks for their children but these are usually rich in fats and sugar which causes obesity. Children also do not eat their meals. Instead they choose to eat in between meals which is also a contributing factor to weight gain. The fast food diet is also very common among children.

Another cause of obesity in children is the lack of exercise. Children these days prefer watching TV or playing computer games instead of going out to play outdoor activities. Because of this, calories are not burned and thus they are converted to fats. Many children do not participate in physical activities such ac sports. These factors can all lead to obesity in children.

Family, genetics and environmental influence can also cause obesity in children. Some children are born into families which are prone to obesity. Some children are also affected by maternal conditions such as gestational diabetes which can also lead to obesity. In addition, when a child grows in a family or environment wherein the adults do not have healthy eating habits, the child will probably become obese.

Prevention
There are many ways childhood obesity can be prevented. Promoting a healthy diet will definitely help. Many organizations support healthy food campaigns to help parents and children become healthier. Parents play an important role in preventing obesity. Parents should be good role models to their children. Mothers should prepare healthy snacks and food for their children. In addition, they should monitor their children's eating habits. Encouraging children to become involved in physical activities will also help.

Parents should do outdoor activities with their children such as playing sports, walking and hiking. Children and parents should join obesity prevention programs. Some schools and organizations also offer childhood obesity counseling. Parents with overweight children should encourage their children to be counseled. Remember, obesity is not just a physical problem; it is also an emotional problem. For children who are already obese, there are many childhood obesity solutions they can choose from. However, even with the presence of these solutions, preventing the occurrence of obesity in children is still much better.