Physical inactivity can be the foundation for developing many health problems in life.  It is a major risk factor for developing coronary artery disease, increases the risk of stroke, obesity, high blood pressure, low HDL (good cholesterol) and diabetes.  According to the Institute of Medicine, one third of American children and youth are either obese or at risk of becoming obese.

These extra pounds are making kids sick.  Some are getting type 2 diabetes, once considered to be a disease of adults only.  Extra weight also contributes to bone and joint problems, sleep apnea and asthma.  Most often, overweight kids translates into overweight adults.

A child who is overweight just once during elementary school is 25 times more likely to be overweight at age 12 than a child who was never overweight during elementary school, according to the National Institute of Health.  And adolescents who are overweight are likely to grow into overweight adults.

So what can you do to promote your child’s health?  The American Heart Association recommends that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day.

Here are some tips from the American Academy of Family Physicians.

  • Focus on teaching your child how to make healthy food choices–not on losing weight to look better.
  • Eat together as a family whenever possible.  It can help minimize the number of fast-food meals consumed.
  • Serve more fruits and vegetables and fewer fatty foods.  Put a clear limit on high-calorie snacks.
  • Keep lots of healthy snacks around, such as fresh fruits and whole grain crackers.
  • Limit TV and computer time.  Encourage active games and sports instead.

Get involved and get your kids moving.  This in turn will help with:

  • Controlling weight
  • Reducing blood pressure
  • Raising HDL cholesterol levels
  • Reducing the risk of diabetes and some kinds of cancer.
  • Improving psychological well being, including self-confidence and higher self-esteem.

What better gift to give your kids than the gift of health? 

Till next time,
Dave