As a part of Nutrition Month, experts are spending an increased amount of money, energy, and resources to educate children and parents on the effects of childhood obesity. Childhood obesity is a growing issue in the United States as one third of children are overweight or obese. Here are the facts.
-Overweight means having excess body weight in regards to a person's height. Obesity occurs when a person has excess body fat. They are the result of a "caloric imbalance" where too few calories are expended for the amount of calories consumed.
-Childhood obesity has both short-term and long-term effects on health and well-being.
*Obese youths are more likely to have risks for cardiovascular disease such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
*Obese adolescents are more likely to have prediabetes.
*Obese children and adolescents are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea, bone and joint problems, and social and psychological problems.
*Obese children and adolescents are more likely to become obese adults. This increases their risks for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke and osteoarthritis.
*Being overweight or obese leads to a higher risk of developing several types of cancers including, cancer of the breast, colon, endometrium, esophagus, kidney, pancreas, ovary, cervix, prostate, and Hodgkin's lymphoma.
-Obesity and overweight can be prevented in many ways:
*Engage in healthy lifestyle habits which include healthy eating and physical activities.
*Schools play a particularly important role by establishing a safe and supportive environment with policies and practices that support healthy behaviors. Schools also provide opportunities for students to learn about and practice healthy eating and physical activity behaviors.
*Many communities have places available to get additional informaiton and learn about healthy eating. Visit a community center, YMCA, library, etc. for guidance on engaging in a healthier lifestyle.
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