Childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years!

The result of too few calories expended for the amount of calories consumed as well as behavioral and environmental factors, this will result in greater risks for –

bone and joint problems

high blood pressure

high cholesterol

sleep apnea

poor self esteem

depression

diabetes

stroke

cancer

liver problems

growth abnormalities

osteoarthritis

gallbladder disease

asthma & other breathing problems

behavior and learning problems

Children in the US spend an average of over 3 hours daily watching TV. Pair this with increased popularity of computers and video games translates to a population of very sedentary children. Fewer than ½  of US children have a parent who engages in any form of regular physical exercise. And only 1/3 have a daily PE class at school.

The single best course of action is to encourage children to enjoy physical activities that burn calories and the next best action is be a positive role model. Demonstrate that being active is not only a huge benefit to your body but that it’s also highly enjoyable.