According to World Health Organization, obesity and overweight are defined as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health. They also pose major risks for many of the chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. They have slowly moved from high income countries to low and middle-income countries and mostly to urban areas. Today, more people are suffering from obesity than from starvation worldwide. The increase in obesity in the past 20 years has been phenomenal and is expected to continue to rise.
Of particular concern is child obesity. It is recorded that approximately 17 percent of U.S. youth have obesity and almost one in three children and adolescents are either obese or overweight. These are dangerous times to be living in. All this brings us to focus on our children who are our future. What hope is there if they are going to succumb to diseases especially ones like obesity and overweight which could be prevented. Parents and healthcare advisers who identify children with these concerns must take steps to manage weight loss in Midland.
Current Eating Habits
It is noted that fewer than 15% of the American elementary school-age children eat the recommended five or more daily servings of fruits and vegetables. This shows they are at a higher risk for obesity and other chronic diseases. And as adults and healthcare practitioners, we need to start making changes so they can make healthier choices which will see them through adulthood. Centers specializing in weight loss in Midland are can help in drawing out healthy diet charts for children battling with issues of overweight and obesity.
Recommended Changes for Children
Changes need not necessarily be drastic in nature. Simply replacing a pack of chips with a fruit alone can lower the children’s daily fat-intake almost to the recommended level. Not only that, but it can also provide important nutrients like folate, fiber and vitamin C. A 12-ounce soft drink when replaced with a single serving (6-ounce) of 100 percent fruit juice increases vitamin C intake by 56 percent, potassium by 13 percent and beta-carotene by 8 percent. Based on the child’s preferences, you can consult with the professional managing weight loss in Midland to come up with fun and interesting ways to incorporate healthy foods into your child’s diet.
Healthy Future
Healthy children make a healthy future as they are the citizens of tomorrow. Schools also play an important role in shaping lifelong healthy eating habits. Meal programs including milk, fruit, vegetables, whole grains and important nutrients like calcium and fiber will help in fueling children’s learning abilities. Customized meal plans advised by specialist dieticians of weight loss in Midland can go a long way in achieving this goal.