According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 65 percent of American adults are overweight or obese. The obesity rate has been climbing steadily over the last several years. Carrying extra weight increases the chances of developing serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, certain kinds of cancers, as well as diabetes.
The incidence of Type 2 diabetes in our country is increasing also, in correlation with the rise in obesity. The American Diabetes Association estimates about 21 million people have diabetes, with another 54 million people diagnosed with pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes is a condition in which fasting blood glucose levels are elevated, but not yet to the level indicated for Type 2 diabetes.
Cutting The Fat Cuts The Risk
Studies have shown that it can make a big difference if people work to lose only 5 to 7 percent of their body weight. For many people, this works out to about 7 to 10 pounds. Even if someone already has diabetes, losing a moderate amount of weight can dramatically slow the progression of the disease. Blood pressure and cholesterol levels also benefit when just this small percentage of body weight is lost.
It's not just how much people weigh, but also where they carry the weight, that put them at greater risk for health problems. People who carry more weight around their waist -- an "apple-shape" -- are more likely to suffer from obesity related problems than someone who is "pear-shaped," or carries more weight in their hips and thighs.
Tips for Preventing Childhood Obesity
Never put your child on a low-calorie deprivation diet. You can lower dietary fat, but maintain calories by increasing the consumption of fruit, vegetables, cereals, and breads.
- Children who eat full meals do better nutritionally than children who merely snack. Your child should come to the table hungry, learn how to control hunger, and wait for his meal to be served.
- Remove snack temptations around the house.
- Don't use desserts and sweets as rewards.
- Have family meals, and set a good example by eating a wide variety of foods.
- Make mealtime pleasant. Don't use this time for criticizing and scolding.
Parents in particular need to be aware as their children grow that they not consume excessive calories from large portions and sugar-sweetened beverages, and that they remain physically active. Many school districts have eliminated "recess" from the elementary school day - a time when children can be free to burn calories. Children and adolescents also need to be provided with physical-education classes (K-12) in their schools and encouraged to be more active after school.
What is the reason for chilhood obesity and type 2 diabetes?
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