Childhood Obesity: A Vital Concern for American Children

American children are eating themselves to death. They are the most overweight, obese generation ever. The life expectancy of Americans in the next 50 years will begin to diminish. Medical costs will skyrocket due to weight-related diseases.

What are WE going to do about it? For starters, get your kid away from the TV and computer. Remember the days when TV actually signed off at midnight and you would get that buzzing sound with a test pattern of color? Well, I’m old… I remember! These were the days that kids went out and played until it got dark out and you would have to literally drag them inside kicking and screaming.

Now, kids are not only watching more TV, but they are playing more video games. LOTS of sedentary time. Granted, the Wii has tried to accommodate by combining games with activity. Although it is better than nothing, it’s still not enough activity.

As overweight kids continue down the disturbing path of unhealthy living, it will cost them more than years of their lives. As they get older it will cost them relationships, jobs and promotions, lack of self-esteem and the list goes on.

It becomes our responsibility as parents to instill healthy habits and encourage our children to lead active lives. That just might mean that you will become more active and get in better shape in the process, which is a good thing! Look at becoming more active as a family and spend quality time with your kids.

The laundry, dishes, and general chores are constant. Don’t let them become an excuse for you to put your kid in front of the television or feed them inadequate food. Shoot, get them doing the chores with you, and then go out to play and be active. Then it’s a win-win for everyone!