Four Ways To Stop Children’s Obesity
Increasing cases of child obesity has been recorded in Australia. In fact, every year the population of children gaining weight doubles. Though chubby kids used to be cute and cuddly, parents should know where to stop. Obese children have higher risks of getting chronic diseases like diabetes, heart problem, and many more. Thus, it is essential to stop obesity while they are still young. Here are some ways that you might want to consider in stopping children obesity.
1. Don’t Let Them Watch While Eating
A recent survey showed that 88% of Australian kids are allowed by their parents to watch TV while eating. And because of this, kids are more prone to overeating which can eventually lead to obesity. When kids are entertained, they will lose the sense of being filled. They are always hungry. Aside from that, kids will be more prone to eating less nutritious food like soda, chips, pizza, burgers, and etc.
As young as two years old, kids should never be allowed to eat in front of the television. Aside from missing the nutrition they need, they also miss the positive environment of eating at the table with their family.
2. Stop Bribing Kids with Food
Another cause of children obesity is when parents bribe their kids with food. Do not reward kids with unhealthy meals. Instead, try to be positive and give them what they need. Unhealthy food bribery can just cause them severe chronic diseases later on when they grow up. So forget bribing kids by taking them to their favorite fast food restaurant and offer them healthy meals instead.
3. Be a Good Example
Almost 39% of parents are not such good examples when it comes to eating. They do not eat fruits and vegetables which sometimes cause their children to grow with the same eating preference.
Parents should adjust their own ways of eating and be a good example to their kids. They should be show their kids that eating healthy will have great benefits to their bodies in the future. Explain them why it is not safe to be overweight. As kids, they might not understand but the role of parents is to guide them.
4. Let kids play outside
Game consoles and portable game systems might be children’s favorite toys nowadays but it is still essential to let them play actively. Children should be encouraged to be more active to constantly burn their fat and avoid obesity. Active games can also practice your kids to be on the go and avoid having sedentary lifestyle later on.
Kids should also be engaged in sports like football, basketball, baseball, and many more. That way, they will have regular activities instead of staying home and eating.