Recommendations for Activity
Benefits of an Active Lifestyle
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Development of social skills such as cooperation and listening
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Improved mental state--Physical activity and a healthy lifestyle act as a way to boost endorphins and serotonin levels in children, teens and adults
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Decreased chances of type two diabetes
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Less likely to have high blood pressure
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Decreased chances of obesity
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(Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016)
(Krakow, 2011)
Childhood Obesity
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Childhood obesity can be defined as having “a body mass index (BMI) at the same level or higher then 95 percent of their peers are considered to be obese” (Roth, E. 2016, para 2). BMI; body mass index is calculated through the use of height and weight, gender and age (Roth, E. 2016). Some causes of childhood obesity are family history, psychological factors, and lifestyle (Roth, E. 2016). The main cause is a combination of eating too much and exercising too little. A diet with high levels of sugar and fat can lead to fast increase in unhealthy weight gain, some parents are uninformed about healthy food choices for their children and often choose fast foods, with few to little nutrients such as frozen dinners and canned foods (Roth, E. 2016). Physical activity is another key factor, in burning calories and maintaining a healthy weight in children. To help children change their lifestyle, nutrition, and healthy eating choices can help fight childhood obesity. Cut back on fast food consumption, prepare meals and eat together, try: fresh fruits and vegetable, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products (Roth, E. 2016). Increase physical activity, add in more family activities, and cut down on screen time (Roth, E. 2016). Have and engage children in physical activity and lead by example to expose them to different interests.
Click the following link to figure out you or your child's Body Mass Index (BMI) and to see which weight category you fall into:
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https://www.dietitians.ca/your-health/assess-yourself/assess-your-bmi/bmi-children.aspx
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Childhood Obesity Causes and Consequences
There are two main influencing factors that relate to excess weight gain in children, the first and foremost is behaviour. Behaviour, can include anything from eating, exercise, routine, activities, school, work, or rest; all these influence weight gain (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016).
If children are consuming healthy food and being physically active, they are able to maintain a healthy weight through their childhood which can also lead to preventing disease.
The second factor is community environment. “Where people live can affect their ability to make healthy choices,” (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016, para 4). If children and families are exposed to environments where opportunities for physical activity are possible, affordable, and safe (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016). They are able to support, promote, and engage with their children and neighbours.
There are some consequences of obesity. Some more immediate health risks are; high blood pressure, breaking problems like asthma, and type 2 diabetes (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016). It can also be related to low self-esteem and bullying/stigma in children. Some more future health risks are that “children who have obesity are more likely to become adults with obesity” (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016, para 5).