As most everyone knows, childhood obesity is on the rise in America. It is estimated that tens of millions of children are either overweight or obese. What is the cause of this so-called epidemic? And how can parents and the medical world take control to lower the incidence of childhood obesity?

Perhaps the most obvious step is to realize that children need to consume far fewer calories than they do. While it is true that they need more calories than adults in some cases to promote continued healthy physical and mental development, children do not need to get those extra calories from fast food and junk food. Additionally, they do need to burn off some of their caloric consumption through exercise, just as adults do.

As for the exercising component, childhood obesity is likely such a problem because of lifestyles that are more conducive to sitting around than running around. Computers and video games are not necessarily the culprit, but they certainly contribute to the sedentary nature of today's youth. When mindless junk food munching is combined with a tendency to lounge in front of the television or computer, those excess pounds pile on, and childhood obesity becomes a way of life.

There are certain steps that parents can take to help ward off those excess pounds. Make nutritious choices for your children; left to their own devices, it is unlikely that children will choose fruits, vegetables, and whole grains over sugar and fatty foods. Childhood obesity is an issue for anyone who does not insist that the entire family eat well-rounded meals.

If nothing else, understand that childhood obesity causes a number of other problems, physically and emotionally. Diseases once mostly seen in adults, like high blood pressure, diabetes, and the like, are now much more prevalent in children. This is directly linked to childhood obesity, in that the excess weight causes such strain on the body. Likewise, emotional trauma is endured by the teasing from the non-obese peers of overweight children. This can have lasting effects.

In the end, childhood obesity is a real problem facing this nation. Unlike many other problems, though, this is one that can be overcome. Parents, understand the potential risks of childhood obesity, and put an end to it now with healthy food choices and increased physical activity. Be effective role models for your children, and childhood obesity can become a thing of the past for your family.

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