Sadly enough, it is reported that in the past 30 years obesity in children has doubled and even tripled in adolescents. This is a scary statistic considering how many risk factors come along with being obese. Increased risk for cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol are just two huge risk factors that affect your health. Not only does being overweight affect your heart and overall health, it may limit certain activities where endurance and speed are necessary. These issues can sometimes cause depression in children that may want to have a better quality of life. Depression can also have negative effects on the human body; therefore, adding depression to obesity is a recipe for disaster. Children and adolescents who are obese are at greater risk for bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and social and psychological problems such as stigmatization and poor self-esteem. The main cause of these children becoming obese is not due to genetics, but the dietary and physical activity behaviors of these children. Proper nutrition information starts with the parents, and it is your duty to make sure nutrient dense foods are provided to your child. Once a meal plan is established, physical activity that your child can take part in is imperative. This generation is all about technology such as cell phones, computers, tablets, and video games. If proper exercise is not a part of their everyday routine, you can be assured that fat cells will accumulate in their body and obesity will become an issue. One important factor when trying to help an obese person (child or adult) lose weight is motivation. Find motivation for them to keep moving forward, it helps more than you know. I hope you are concerned enough to monitor your child’s nutrition and exercise, their life depends on it.
– Nick Cupp, CPT
Nick Cupp is a Certified Personal Trainer at iN8 Fitness (weight loss programs, personal training, rehabilitation) in Lake Mary, FL. He attended the University of Central Florida where he majored in Sports and Exercise Science. He is certified as a trainer through AFAA. Call our Lake Mary office today at 407-302-5161 to see how we can help you meet your weight loss and wellness goals!
