All about Teen Obesity.

Teen Obesity is seen in children and teens between the ages of 6 to 19 years old. It is rising to epidemic proportions in America. A large number of teens are therefore at a high risk to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease. This is the result of teen obesity.

The teenagers who face obesity problems may also have to face social discrimination that can be quite devastating.  Being overweight reduces their self-esteem and self-confidence and keeps them away from participating in a number of active activities with children of their age. The obese children may be highly depressed thus, they prefer to stay back at home and indulge in activities like watching TV and having snacks. This leads to additional weight gain, depression and more serious health issues.

What is the Cause of Teen Obesity?

Basically, Teen Obesity is a result of inadequate physical activities and unhealthy eating habits. Day to Day, activities such as playing video games, sitting in front of the computer and the lack of physical activity is making more teens obese.

Another cause of Teen Obesity is diet. These days, diets mainly consists of sugary snacks, fast foods, oily and fried food items, and in addition to this eating in restaurants is also an affect. These foods directly contribute in developing obesity. A teen’s diet should consist of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, sprouts and curd. Such a diet will help teens to develop a healthy weight, a proper waist-to-hip ratio, and reduce the risk for developing diabetes.

Teens should also be encouraged to participate in activities that can play a vital role in reducing obesity. Getting teens involved in activities like swimming, playing basketball, tennis, volleyball, rocket ball, trekking & skating will ensure that they burn out the extra calories  and hence maintain a healthy weight. Practicing any one of these activities daily and teens will notice a big difference. It is encouraged that teens choose activities that are fun as well as healthy.

Studies have shown that obesity can be reversed in teens. It is a lot easier to catch it early than in a later stage in life.  

Parents play a very critical role in the child’s life to avoid the problems of obesity. They have to guide them to develop healthy food habits, exercise regularly and indulge in other physical activities to maintain good health.  Always remember, scolding the child for being overweight without guiding them is useless. Instead, they need to explain the significance of losing weight, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and portraying a positive image to their children.