Written by Carrie Wiwcharuk
Childhood obesity should not be taken lightly, the rates having almost tripled in 25 years; families, schools, communities, businesses and government can work together to get our kids healthy.
What is childhood obesity?
According to The Childhood Obesity Foundation , childhood obesity is a medical condition that affects children and teenagers who have a weight well above the average for a child’s height and age. Approximately 26% of Canadian children ages 2-17 years old are currently overweight or obese.
What does this mean?
A child who is obese is at a higher risk for serious health problems such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated blood cholesterol, liver disease, bone and joint problems, asthma, sleep disorders, and eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia.
Over weight or obese children are also more likely to suffer from psychological issues such as lower self esteem, increased risk of depression/anxiety and poorer social skills.
What can we do?
Families, schools and communities, recommends The Childhood Obesity Foundation, can work together to promote the
5-2-1-0 Rule
5 or more servings of fruit and vegetables per day
2 hours of screen time or less per day
1 hour or more of physical activity per day
0 sugar sweetened beverages per day
Click here for more information about what families can do to decrease the risk of childhood obesity.
What can Businesses do?
Besides not promoting companies who sell unhealthy food and beverages, businesses can provide wellness education and exercise facilities for their employees as well as invest in healthy eating programs for children.
What can Government do?
Our Government can continue to take initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, provide funding for more treatment centres and support research regarding childhood obesity.
Together, we can lead by example, living healthfully, or making changes to do so, enabling us to pass down the benefits to our next generations.
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