Back in the day childhood obesity was almost unseen; unheard of, nowadays it's hard to see a child who isn't overweight.  But almost everywhere you turn there is some form of marketing towards young children and teens.  Sugary cereals coat the television screens, unhealthy salty overloaded chips and snacks line the grocery stores, greasy artery clogging burgers pop up in magazines.

Even the innocent fruit juice is pumped with high-fructose and more sugar, and fruit snacks... how much fruit are REALLY in there?  Yes it's a scary junk-food induced world out there for both children and adults alike.  What you eat, your child eats, so set an example.  Instead of candy, hand your child a sweet apple or mango, grill or bake your food instead of frying, make sure there are lots of colours on the plate (greens, purples, reds, oranges, yellows).  Substitute lowfat milk for soda pop and whole wheat foods rather than non-nutritional white foods. 

But food isn't the only problem.  Let's address activity.  Kids are more interested in video games, the Internet, their i-pod than going out and actually playing.  I think it's important for parents to get involved and start incorporating activities into their children's schedule.  Find games to play that makes them move around... get them to skip rope, go for a bike ride, roller-skate, go swimming etc.  Maybe even see if they are interested in sports, then let them join little league or football.  There is a world of possibilities out there.  Again, you are their example.  If you go out for a morning or evening walk, take them with you.

Off course it is also important to have children supplement with a proper quality multi-vitamin and some healthy fish oils.  When a child is overweight they need to cut back on their calories, so also having naturally sweetened protein shakes on hand will help them reach their goal.  Protein powders are easy to mix, come in delicious flavours and can be blended with fruits, berries and/or non-fat yoghurts.  This can be made quickly and usually replaces one of their meals. 

So make sure you read your labels - check calories, fat content, sugar grams, sodium micro-grams.  Stop giving sweets to children all the time, this should be an occassional treat.  Start focusing on a more healthy lifestyle.  No parent wants to have their young children diagnosed with high-blood pressure, diabetes, high cholestrol or the painful name teasing at schools.  Get active with your kids today!

Helki S. Weber

Health/Nutrition Consultant

Written by :

Helki S.Weber

 

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