In recent years, our society has become dependent on electronic and digital items – cell phones, computers, video games, and PDA’s have become necessary luxuries. But not everyone benefits from this high-tech dependency we have created. According to the American Association of Obesity, today’s youth are considered the most inactive generation in history. Instead of riding bikes, playing on playgrounds and participating in sports, many American kids are spending their free time sitting around. They’re watching television, playing video games, working on the computer, text messaging, etc.
They’re not eating very well either. According to the American Dietetic Association, instead of choosing healthy snacks like fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products and pretzels, too many kids are filling up on junk food.
Poor diets combined with a lack of activity explain why approximately 30.3 percent of American children ages 6 to 11 are now overweight and 15.3 percent are obese. Meantime, 30.4 percent of children ages 12 to 19 are overweight and 15.5 percent are obese.
Excess weight in childhood and adolescence has been found to be a good indicator that a person will remain overweight as an adult. And we all know the dangers associated with being heavy as an adult: coronary heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes, and high blood pressure – just to name a few.
So, what can you do to turn things around for your child? A good place to start is by showing your son or daughter that you’re serious about your family’s health.
1. Go for walks, jogs or bike rides daily
Set aside time each day after school or work to go for a walk, run, jog, or bike ride. Any of these activities will offer a good amount of exercise, and help you burn calories. Invite your son or daughter to join you so that everyone can get into the habit.
2. Enroll the kids in sports
Kids burn serious calories if they participate in sports after school. The ability to burn a high number of calories in a short time isn’t the only benefit kids get from competitive sports. Sports also teach children of all ages how to function as a member of a team, how to strategize, and the importance of giving it their all.
3. Clean up your act
Set the healthy example for your children by getting and staying active, stocking your kitchen with healthy foods, and taking an active role in your own health. Kids of all ages learn by example – if a healthy, active lifestyle is normal to them, they are far more likely to carry those habits into their adult lives. W
Are Kids Active Enough?
