How to Combat Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is out of control in the United States today. Statistics show the number of children between 6 and 11 who are obese have doubled since 1980. Being over weight as a child will lead to an adult having many diseases that could have been preventable if they would have maintained a healthy weight as a child. Childhood obesity can be prevented if you follow some of the simple rules below:

First, teach your children the sound rules of nutrition. Start them at an early age eating healthy food. Do not use food as a reward or for comfort. Make sure your child learns to eat only when they are hungry and not as a past time. Don’t let them fall in love with fast food. Fast food is the down fall of so many children and a leading cause for so many children to be overweight.

Secondly, teach your child to eat sensible portions. Over consumption is not a way of life. You do not want your child to be super sizing everything from an early age. When it comes to food less is better. If they feel full stop eating. If they are still hungry in a little while, they can have something else to eat later.

Next, stress the importance of daily exercise. Too many children today have become coach potatoes. They park themselves in front of the TV or computer and never move. It is recommended that a child has at least one hour a day of vigorous exercise. Make exercise fun, it can be done as a family or solo. Take walks, ride bikes, play games, keep the whole family moving together.

Lastly, Make sure your children understand the necessity of a permanent commitment to a healthy life style. They should learn the satisfaction from living a healthy life style. Resulting in your child leading a life full of self-esteem.