Childhood Obesity: A Weighty Issue

One in three children in the United States is overweight or obese. A kindergartener who is obese is more likely to be obese as an adult; obesity at any age can lead to serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and some cancers.

Parents can help keep their children healthy by teaching them the importance of moving and of eating foods that will fuel their bodies.

“Establishing good habits early is so important. Give your children healthy foods and make sure they exercise at least an hour every day,” says Armando de Pala, MD, a pediatrician with Annadel Medical Group in Petaluma. “Children who play a lot of video games, watch a lot of TV or who spend too much time on their computers or tablets all have increased risk of childhood obesity so it’s important to set limits.”

Follow these tips for keeping your child healthy:

• Get active as a family. Encourage your child to move every day. Walking the dog, playing tag with friends and going for a family swim are good exercise and better than screen time.
• Offer nutritious snacks – at home and for school. Keep fresh fruit and raw vegetables on hand. Involve your child in making his school lunch and let him pick out the fruits and veggies he prefers.
• Be an example. Children are observant. Your child will be more likely to exercise and eat right if he sees you do it.
• Offer water. Limit sodas and sugary fruit drinks. Water and milk are the best drinks for kids. Up water’s taste by infusing it with fresh fruit. Switch from whole milk to skim.
• Get help if you need it. Your child’s pediatrician or your family doctor can work with you on a plan to get your child to a healthier place.

Learn more about Annadel Medical Group. Learn more about Dr. de Pala.