You may think pudgy babies are cute, but obesity in children is becoming epidemic—with pretty serious consequences. Here in Texas, many diseases that were once considered adult—heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure and cholesterol levels—are appearing in younger and younger children. Add to that the poor self-esteem and depression that often accompany obesity, and the outlook for a happy, healthy life for obese children seems less and less likely. It has been estimated that most children today will not live as long as their parents, or even their grandparents. That is a sign of poor health and development in a society.
Blueprint for Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes used to be referred to as an adult-onset as opposed to the juvenile-onset form of the condition (type 1). That has changed, as more and more young people are now developing the type 2 variety. This can be characterized by a number of symptoms: increased thirst and dry mouth, frequent urination, tiredness or blurry vision, skin that itches or is slow to heal, and numbness or tingling in extremities. If you notice these symptoms, get your child to a doctor.
Building Blocks of the Disease
Obesity in children is one of the highest risk factors for developing this condition. Excess fat, especially in the abdomen, makes it more likely that your child’s body will not produce enough insulin to release the sugars in the blood for use by the cells. When sugar levels rise too high, other things begin to happen. Your child may develop poor circulation or nerve damage. His or her kidneys may be affected and unable to remove toxins adequately. Loss of eyesight and development of heart disease are other complications that can affect your child’s health and life.
Lack of exercise only makes the problems worse. Sitting all day in class or in front of the TV or computer means children don’t burn enough calories, and their weight will keep increasing. The more they sit, the less efficient their hearts become, and the slower the blood flow. This makes it even harder to exercise, and a vicious cycle ensues.
How You Can Help Construct Healthy Lives
The best way to deal with the issue is to make sure your children eat healthy foods and get lots of activity. Model this for them by eating well and being active yourself. Help them plant a garden, even if it’s just a container or two. You will get them busy outside, with the benefit of enjoying vegetables they have grown themselves. Another option is to let them shop the farmers’ market with you for fresh, healthy food.
Walk with them to the park or the school playground, or go for bike rides together. Take a drive out of the city to a natural area or state park and hike the trails. If nothing else, challenge them to a jumping jack contest in your yard or race them around the block. As the famous slogan says, just do it. You will both benefit from lost pounds and gained abilities.
Are You Looking for Pediatric Foot Care in Austin, TX?
If you are looking for pediatric foot care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or call our Austin office at 512.328.8900.
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