It appears as though the wave of bad news surrounding obesity statistics has finally taken a small turn for the better. New statistics are showing that childhood obesity rates have fallen in 19 states and US territories (out of 43 studied), marking the first time a decrease of any kind has been reported in a number of decades. Rates also remained unchanged in 21 states and territories, and increased slightly in only 3.
While this news is definitely a positive development in an extremely important national public health issue, it is not yet safe to say that this problem has been completely solved. Obesity rates among children are still way too high. 1 in 8 preschool-aged children (12%) is obese, which is especially disconcerting since obese children are five times more likely to remain obese as adolescents and adults than non-obese children. This is also of significant concern since this sustained obesity throughout adulthood can also lead to conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, asthma, mental health problems, and even death.
There are several factors that have contributed to this latest development and in order for this progress to continue, further efforts must be made to ensure that healthy habits are introduced to children from a very young age. Incorporating nutrition education into school curricula and other community-based organizations is a very important start. There must also be a strong effort made to make healthy food and beverage options available and affordable to everyone.
Another essential element is to encourage exercise and physical activity. This means cutting back on TV and computer time, especially for children, and devoting more time in the day to playing outdoors, joining sports teams, and other recreational activities. This practice of combining a healthier diet with an increased amount of physical activity is the same advice that is given to overweight and obese adults, so it is no wonder that it is also beneficial for children. Introducing this type of healthier lifestyle to children is also a great way of ensuring that they will maintain it throughout adulthood.
This infographic from the CDC shows how to encourage healthy habits, even with children as young as preschoolers.
Do you have children? How do you encourage their healthy habits?
Images via CDC
