Childhood Obesity is on the rise

[Pam Horton]

I was recently at a doctor’s office and doctor TV was on (or some such thing). A segment came on about childhood obesity and the numbers they were quoting along with the various diseases now showing up in childhood prompted me to write an article about it.

The woman on TV was talking about the fact that
• There are more chemicals/preservatives in our food these days
• Busy families often tend to eat fast food
• Video games and computers occupy our children’s time, instead of playing outside
She’s absolutely correct. These things are all true! She also mentioned the number of sodas kids drink these days. Actually, it’s not just kids, last summer CNN reported that half of Americans drink sugary beverages daily! YIKES!

This doctor also suggested paying attention to your child’s weight and if you see them starting to get heavy – take action.
This chart will help you determine if you/or someone you love may be nearing obesity.

If you know someone who is obese and ready to take the steps to get healthy, they should first visit their doctor. If they would like someone to help keep them accountable to reach the health goals they have set for themselves, they may want to consider a health and wellness coach. Sometimes it helps to have someone on board to encourage you to keep striving forward.

The Center for Disease Controlhas some in depth information with fact, figures, and strategies!

Be aware of what your children are eating. Be aware of what kind of an example you are setting. Remember that old saying, “you are what you eat.” Grin.

*For more information on how a life coach may be beneficial to you, visit www.newdirectionlifecoaching.com *