The dangers of childhood obesity are much worse than what was once thought. Not only the obvious health dangers but child obesity statistics indicate the future and security of our country may soon be at risk. Obesity in teens has reached epidemic proportions. Don't take my word for it. Here are real childhood obesity facts. You be the judge.
The United States Department of Health and Human Services released the results of the 2007 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey.
• 79% ate less than five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.
• 34% drink at least one non-diet soda per day.
• 65% did not meet recommended levels of physical activity.
• 46% do not attend physical education classes.
• 35% watched three or more hours of television per average school day.
• 25% used a computer for purposes other than school work for three or more hours on an average school day.
More childhood obesity facts include...
The dangers of childhood obesity escalate when you investigate medical childhood obesity statistics and facts. Children and adolescents who are obese are at an increased risk of acquiring one of these serious obesity related psychological or medical conditions.
Psychological and Emotional Dangers of Childhood Obesity
Social isolation • Depression • Anxiety • Poor self-esteem • Poor self-image • Low educational attainment • Eating disorders • Insecurity and unresolved anger
Cardiovascular Dangers of Childhood Obesity
Hypertension • Endothelial dysfunction • Chronic inflammation • Coagulopathy
Gastrointestinal Dangers of Childhood Obesity
Reflux • Gallstones • Constipation • Diarrhea • Steatohepatitis
Other childhood obesity related diseases include type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, sleep apnea, Blount's disease, back pain, plus many more serious conditions too numerous to list.
More than 90% of American youth eat at McDonald's at least once per month. Which begs the question how many times per month do our kids eat at KFC, Taco Bell and Burger King? 14% of American 2-5 year olds are overweight. Which will logically lead to a dramatic increase in obesity in teens over the next ten years.
Current childhood obesity statistics are accurate, dependable and unforgiving in their message and future prognosis.
Approximately 66% of the entire American populace is currently overweight or obese. The number of overweight adults has doubled in the last 20 years. While obesity in teens and children has tripled. One child in three in America is overweight.
What does our future hold as a nation if this disastrous trend continues unchanged? If you are an average American you weigh eight pounds more than you weighed in the year 2000.
If your child is not currently overweight don't allow them to be. I know it's easier said than done. And well worth the effort. Just ask any parent of an overweight child.
Talk to your child. Provide quality information about nutrition, health and fitness. Encourage them to participate in physical activities. Be a good role model and example. The best way to avoid the dangers of childhood obesity is PREVENTION.
If your child or teen is obese or overweight start by familiarizing yourself with childhood obesity facts, data, statistics and studies. Arm yourself with knowledge. Learn about the weight loss strategies and tips that help young people lose weight.
For more information on how to protect your child from the dangers of obesity I recommend reviewing the 29 Best Teen Weight Loss Tips on this web site.
Dangers of childhood obesity are avoidable with regular check-ups and a healthy diet plan combined with fun physical activity!
Childhood obesity facts indicate there's a link to the absence of child obesity in relation to the amount of physical activity and time spent outdoors. The more active the child is outside, the less likely she is to have weight issues. Duh!
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