Childhood Obesity Blamed on Parents
With recent data indicating childhood obesity is at an all-time high, personal trainer and weight loss consultant, Angela Ursprung says parents must take an active role in their childÂ’s nutrition and fitness today.
(PRWEB) August 7, 2003
“All parents have an obligation to their child’s mental and physical well-being,” founder of The Body Sculptress Angela Ursprung said. “Although it's painful for parents to critically examine a child’s physical health, it is imperative to do so early in life because an obese child often grows up to be an obese adult.”
Ursprung cited the recently developed weight loss research project for children at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and now the American Academy of Pediatrics is suggesting that parents have their childrenÂ’s body-mass index measures evaluated yearly.
Ursprung said these developments are not meant to cause parental panic but rather to signal an alarm for all families to re-evaluate their health lifestyle and make changes! now. “Clearly, a child who eats in moderation and develops a standard exercise program will grow into an adult with similar patterns,” Ursprung said. “The idea is to help children develop appropriate eating habits and fitness programs that will carry with them throughout their lives.”
She says one of very best things that parents can do is to be healthy role models! “There is no stronger statement a parent can make than to demonstrate their own willingness and ability to make and follow their own health plan,” Ursprung added. “I recommend exercise in front of and with your children three or more times each week.”
In addition, families can get fit together by taking a family walk, bike ride or hike. “Choose healthy after-school or summer programs, join a kids gym, get involved in the neighborhood pool and racket club and reward healthy behaviors with non-food items,” Ursprung suggests.
In terms of nutrition, Ursprung said today’s fast paced society inh! ibits parents from planning healthy meals. “We’re constantly a! ssaulted with fast food restaurants and pre-packaged meals that parents aren’t paying enough attention to the fat content and highly processed foods that contribute to significant weight gain.”
Ursprung suggests families plan meals together and prepare the week’s meals during the weekend. “A healthy lifestyle requires planning and commitment – it is attainable and worth the effort in the long run.” In addition, cook healthy meals together as often as possible, read healthy articles, plan healthy outings, discuss health-related topics together at mealtime and plan how to eat healthily while traveling
