Tag: childhood

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Week

The first week of July is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Week. It is a time when leading organisations aim to highlight the impacts of childhood obesity and request the Government take action to focus on reducing obesity in children, for the health of our nation.

Awareness of childhood obesity and the risks it brings can help parents make better choices for their children. There is a much greater chance that overweight children will become overweight adults, when compared to children who maintain a normal weight throughout adolescence.

Childhood obesity heightens the risk of serious illnesses during childhood and increases the risk of developing long-term health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke and several types of cancer.

As a parent there is plenty that you can do to help your child maintain a healthy weight with the support of healthcare professionals and schools. Many teaching institutions now provide an environment where your child can learn about nutrition and health.

Healthy living starts at home and children learn first and foremost from their parents.

Here are some easy ways to assist your child to achieve a healthy weight:

1. Monitor your child’s weight. The ‘red book’ you are given when your baby is born contains useful charts for reviewing your child’s weight, height and development. Always seek professional help if you are concerned about any aspect of your child’s health and development.

2. Encourage your child to exercise and have fun outdoors every day.

3. Feed your child a healthy diet high in vegetables, fruit and unprocessed foods. Minimise the amount of packaged food, fresh is best.

4. Enjoy food in moderation and limit sweet treats to special occasions.

5. Have fun teaching your child about nutritious foods and show them how to cook healthy meals so they are prepared to make the best choices in life.

6. Be a role model for your child and encourage physical activity and healthy eating.

If your child is overweight, you can do something about it. The earlier you act the sooner your child will reap the health benefits, both mentally and physically.

Lydia Oliver – Nutritional Advisor Only Best For Baby

This article was published in the July 2013 edition of Mummy and Me Magazine. 

I offer one to one nutrition programmes for breastfeeding, post pregnancy weight loss, weaning, weight management and health. Contact me.