DANGERS OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY
& WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT

20 Facts on Obesity #6

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.

The Real Dangers of Childhood Obesity Revealed

More childhood obesity facts include...

• Type 2 diabetes, once thought to be an all adult disease, is now being frequently diagnosed in children and adolescents. This can lead to other dangerous conditions like kidney disease, blindness and heart problems.
• Child obesity statistics state over 60% of American 5-10 year old children who are overweight have at least one heart disease risk factor. Over 25% share two or more risk factors. I'm talking about 5-10 year olds here. Devastating data!
• Since 1980 obesity in teens and children has tripled while obesity in adults has doubled.
• Hospital stay costs related to obesity in teens and childhood obesity has tripled in the last 20 years.

Dangerous Trends

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.

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Child Obesity Statistics Paint Bleak Picture

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.

How to Avoid the Dangers of Childhood Obesity

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.

Discount Dangers of Childhood Obesity With a Medical Evaluation and Physical Check-up

If you're worried about your child's health, a medical check-up should dispel or confirm any serious obesity related medical condition. Once your physician gives your child a clean bill of health you will have the necessary information required to offer your child a genuine opportunity for lasting and meaningful weight loss success.

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.

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