2. Facts on obesity Statistics from the most recent large-scale childhood obesity survey in the UK shockingly reveal that 25 percent of boys and 33 percent of girls aged between two and 19 years are overweight or obese. One in four children is obese, the Health and Social Care Information Centre survey of 2,000 children found. From 1995 to 2004, obesity among boys aged 11-15 rose from 14% to 24% and girls from 15% to 26%. The rate rose slightly in the two to 10 age group.
3. What is obesity? A child is classed as obese of they are carrying too much weight for their height and sex. Children can become obese if they eat or drink more calories than their body uses or if they do too little physical activity. Obese children are more likely to develop health problems in later life.
4. What are the causes of obesity? there are many causes to obesity. Some are: Excessive snacking High calorie fast food Lack of physical activity Family habits-if family habits are that more unhealthy foods are eaten this can instil a habit in the child as well.
5. Effects of childhood obesity Lowered self esteem Depression Bullying Cardiovascular risks (e.g. stroke) Type 2 diabetes High blood pressure Psychological problems Physical problems
6. Where does the problem lie? Fast food companies-super sizing foods Parents-providing an unhealthy lifestyle Government for the lack of healthy food provided in schools Advances in technology which mean that children sit around more.
7. Reducing childhood obesity Eat at least five portions of a variety of fruit and vegetables each day. Eat a low-fat diet and don’t increase your fat and/or calorie intake. Eat as little as possible of fried foods, sweets which are high in added sugars and fat and high-fat foods such as take-away meals or fast food. Minimise sedentary activities, such as sitting for long periods watching television, at a computer or playing video games. Encourage active play, for example dancing and skipping
