Child Obesity, the growing Epedimic!
One in four Australian children is now classified as overweight, placing them at risk of developing diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, and even cancer. With the world around us set up for easy access to junk food and inactive recreation, it often feels like an uphill battle to manage the health of our kids. There are, however, a few lifestyle shifts we can introduce as parents to keep the kids out of the danger zone.
From a nutritional approach, educate yourself and your family in making good nutritional choices. If you're not sure, check out the Queensland Health web site. Involve your children in choosing, buying, and preparing healthy food. Try not to punish, reward, or cheer them up with food, as it sets up an unhealthy relationship with food.
An active lifestyle is important for the whole family, regardless of their age or weight. Physical activity helps to build skills, makes you feel better and helps to protect you from many lifestyle diseases. Activity should be fun, without focusing only on competition or skills. Limit sedentary activity like TV watching and using computers to no more than two hours a day.
If these strategies fail, talk to your GP, community health nurse or an accredited Dietitian
Article written by Linda Campbell, for Executive Results
www.performwell.com.au
