Wednesday, August 03, 2005

Childhood Obesity

This is a topic that you will find comes up alot in my Blog. It is certainly a pet hate of mine because it is so easy to fix but some people just don't get it. They think that the kids will grow out of it, or they need that much food but it is just not true.
1. Kids need activity: How do you think a kid will end up if they are sedentary and eat lots. They will get fat, have no social skills, and will have low self-esteem. Playing with other kids provides much more than exercise. It teaches them how to interact with others, conflict resolution, and increases their confidence.
2. Kids don't need to eat all the time: Your child will get by on 3 meals a day. They only need snacks if they are very active, and even then give them something low in fat and sugar. Then theres portion size. Kids don't need a large plate heaped with food, and they certainly don't need seconds, and thirds!
3. If nothing changes, nothing changes!:I will put this to you straight. If you don't set your childs exercise and eating habits whilst their young then theres a good chance that you will be burying them later. I know its strong but these are the facts. People are now dying in their 20's and 30's from heart disease and the figures are growing. It's crazy!
4. Kids need role models: Now this is where it gets hard because I understand that work and family commitments take up a lot of time. But 10 minutes per day can make a great deal of difference. It really can. Go for a walk, throw a ball, do anything. You'll probably also improve your relationship with your kids even further!

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