CyberDodo takes on Obesity (2-34)

Childhood obesity, continued…. 2/2

What are the consequences of untreated childhood obesity ?

To begin with the most serious, a decreased life expectancy (At adult age, we witness an abnormally high death rate, according to specialists 50-75% !)

Before reaching adulthood, the obese child may suffer from articular problems, diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension not to mention problems related to socialisation.

Indeed, the obese child will typically encounter additional challenges in terms of being accepted by his or her peers and as such, is often the victim of teasing ; he will exhibit a tendency towards self-exclusion (from hobbies, sports, etc.) this isolation then compounding the sedantary lifestyle that is very much part of the problem .

How can we take on and defeat childhood obesity ?

The answer to this question might seem as evident as it is paradoxical « By fighting against poverty ! »

It could seem paradoxical because many persons are more apt to associate the word « famine » than « obesity » with « poverty ». And yet, it is evident because, as with so many other terrible dramas lived by our fellow humans, poverty is so often at the root of any given serious problem.

In many countries around the world, populations went from a state of malnourishment to obesity in just one generation. They eat more and more given that food is now more abundant. However, it is of bad quality and the consequences with respect to their health are drastic.

Our generation must grapple with what is an unacceptable paradox close to one billion persons who go hungry while close to 2 billion of the planet's citizens are overweight.

In short, there are six main strategies for improving the situation :

First of all, let's not forget the most important : « The fight against poverty ! »

With respect to local traditions and constraints, inform children and their families with respect to the basic rules for a healthy and balanced diet primarily prepared at home, and using to the greatest extent possible, fresh produce.

Ensure medical supervision of children, including dietary advice

Promote the practice of regular sport activity, in conjunction with an individual consciousness of calorie control

Control and surveille the content of industrially produced food products and ensure the clear labeling of their contents as such, ban the worst publicity out there those for products with too much sugar, fat overload, etc.

Finally, promote the consumption of fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables as well as quality proteins.

To see the cartoon on childhood obesity, click here

For the quiz, click here

For the game, click here

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