Obesity has been a longstanding issue in America that puts children and adolescents at risk for poor health.
The U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention said obesity prevalence among children and adolescents is still too high. For children and adolescents aged 2-19 years in 2017-18, the prevalence of obesity was 19.3 percent and affected about 14.4 million children and adolescents.
“Obesity is a common and costly health concern that increases risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, among others. It affects more than one-third of adults and 17 percent of youth in the United States. By the numbers 78 million adults and 12 million children are obese -- figures many regard as an epidemic,” according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Parents play a very crucial role in helping children feel loved and in control of their weight. Take advantage of every opportunity to build your child’s self-esteem. Don’t be afraid to bring up the topic of health and fitness. Talk to your kids directly, openly and without being critical or judgmental.
Avoid weight talk. Negative comments about your own, someone else’s or your child’s weight – even if well intended – can hurt your child. Negative talk about weight can lead to poor body image. Instead, focus your conversation on healthy eating and positive body image, as well as setting a good example to your child by walking your talking or practicing what you “preach.”
Find reasons to praise your child’s efforts. Celebrate small, gradual changes in behavior, but don’t reward with food. Choose other ways to make your child’s accomplishments, such as going to the bowling alley or a local park.
Ana Williams is the health columnist for The Graham Star. She can be reached via email, anawilliams2019@gmail.com.