Childhood obesity is a medical condition that is characterized by a weight well above the norm for their height and age. Doctors define obesity as having a body mass index well above average. Over 15% of American children are considered obese and the number is growing.
There are a number of factors that contribute to childhood obesity. I’d like to look a bit closer at a few.
Eating Habits
Childhood obesity can result from poor eating habits. When looking at lunches that children bring to school, instead of being packed with a healthy, balanced meal, many are packed with junk food meal and snack items. Eating out on a regular basis also contributes to weight gain in children. Children that eat meals at home with the family (all sitting down to eat together) typically weigh less than children whose families eat out several times a week.
Physical Activity
Physical activity is a great factor when it comes to overweight children. If a child sits around watching TV, playing video games and munching, they are more likely to be obese. On the other hand when a child gets at least 30 minutes of exercise each day they will be less likely to be overweight.
Biological Factors
A child’s weight is also affected by genetics. Many overweight children have a mother and/or father that struggle to maintain a healthy weight. Genetic factors such as metabolism may impact a child’s inability to lose weight, but frequently children of overweight parents gain weight simply because their parents are poor role models. Many children look to their parents for the “right thing to do.” If a child is raised in a house where healthy eating and exercise are not promoted, it should be no surprise if the child grows up eating unhealthy food and not getting enough exercise.
Lack of Sleep
Believe it or not, lack of sleep is another contributing factor in obese children. Previously this was believed in adults but recent studies have shown that this is also true in children as well. Infants and toddlers that get fewer than 12 hours of sleep are more likely to gain weight.
There are a lot of things that contribute to childhood obesity. At Camp Pocono Trails, we do our part to provide as many chances as possible to live a healthy lifestyle. You may have seen us on MTV’s "Return to Fat Camp" where we demonstrated our commitment to help overweight children learn how to eat healthy, be more active, and feel better about themselves.
