When you were growing up, you might have heard the neighborhood bully picking on the chubby kid. Maybe you were that chubby kid. As painful as that situation can be, childhood taunts are the least of the risks of being overweight.
According to the American Obesity Association, obesity in children is a serious issue—and can cause many health and social problems that can continue into adulthood. These include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia.
Kids should be physically active for at least an hour on most days of the week. Plan family outings around energizing, fun-filled activities, such as walking in the park or swimming in the community pool.
All of your family members should get involved in helping your child focus on healthy eating by setting a good example and changing eating habits for the better. Talk about good health and other positive things that are going on in your child’s life.
For more information about childhood obesity, go to kp.org/health and search our online health encyclopedia.
