Healthy Habits to Observe During Childhood Obesity Month

September is National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month – what better time to advocate for healthy habits in our children? If you think obesity is not a significant concern for children, think again - the Centers for Disease Control report that one out of every five children in the United States suffers from obesity. This problem becomes more and more severe as children grow up. Obese children and teens are about five times more likely to remain obese as adults than their healthy counterparts. Around 55% of obese children go on to be obese in adolescence, and for teens, the problem becomes even more difficult to reverse. About 80% of obese adolescents will still be obese in adulthood. 

Obesity is a complicated phenomenon and can often be a genetically inherited trait. Lifestyle factors like a lack of activity, easy access to high-calorie, fattening foods and snacks, and social habits can all contribute to a child’s risk of obesity. Childhood obesity is a significant problem in our own Los Angeles, where the national rate – one in five children – is reflected. Growing up is complicated enough without the extra challenges obesity creates for children, from health risks like high blood pressure and cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and asthma to mental health challenges and bullying. Los Angeles’ demographics and urban layout contribute to a complex interplay of factors influencing childhood obesity rates. The rates are particularly high among children from low-income families and Hispanic or African-American communities. 

Here is a summary of factors that contribute to obesity in Los Angeles and, more broadly, in the country: 

1. Socioeconomic struggles: Low-income neighborhoods in Los Angeles may have limited access to affordable, nutritious foods, known as “food deserts.” These areas lack grocery stores and fresh food options, making it challenging for families to maintain healthy diets.
2. A car-based urban layout: The urban landscape of Los Angeles can impact physical activity. Only 30% of Los Angeles residents live within a quarter-mile of a park. This limits children’s access to safe parks, recreational spaces, and sidewalks, which can discourage outdoor activities and play. Traffic and concerns about safety may prevent children from walking or biking to school.
3. Fast food is everywhere: Los Angeles has a fast-food culture with easy access to convenience foods that are often high in calories, unhealthy fats, and sugars. The prevalence of fast-food restaurants can contribute to poor dietary choices.
4. Screens keep children inactive: Like many urban areas, Los Angeles sees high rates of screen time among children. Excessive use of TVs, computers, smartphones, and video games can lead to sedentary behavior and reduced physical activity.
5. Limited access to healthcare: For some families, limited access to healthcare services and preventive care can hinder early intervention and support for children who are at risk of obesity.
6. Inconsistent nutrition education: The importance of nutrition education varies across communities. A lack of comprehensive nutrition education can lead to a lack of awareness about healthy eating habits and portion control.
7. Busy, working parents: Work schedules and time constraints may also impact parents’ ability to prepare home-cooked meals.

To effectively address childhood obesity, communities need to adopt a comprehensive and collaborative approach involving families, schools, healthcare providers, organizations, and policymakers. Which is to say there are many factors beyond families’ everyday control that would facilitate healthier lives for children. However, it is critical that families take child obesity seriously – and get ahead of health issues before they get out of control. Here are a few things families can do to prevent obesity in children:

• Promote fun exercise. Creating dedicated moments for physical activity can help children build healthy habits. With your help, physical activity can become something children look forward to. Set a goal – say, 45-60 minutes of physical activity each day — and stick to it! Encourage children to go for a bike ride, walk, or run. Being a role model and getting active with your child is a great way to spend quality time together. Dancing, soccer, wrestling, throwing a frisbee – there are countless ways to get moving that are interactive and fun.
• Educate your child about healthy foods, find the ones they like, and make sure they are always available. Does your child love carrots or apples? Keep them stocked in the fridge! On the other hand, chips, sodas, and candy are not only risky foods to eat regularly – their high sodium and sugar content makes them addictive. 
• Prioritize meal-planning and home-cooked meals. Prepare well-rounded meals that include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and fiber.
• Keep your child hydrated. Have water available all the time. If your children aren’t reaching for it, try flavoring it with an orange slice or a splash of fruit juice. Staying hydrated is vital – especially in our hot, dry region. Plus, a hydrated child is less likely to overeat.
• Make good sleep a priority. When a child is under-rested children, they are more likely to have an unpredictable appetite.

At Maryvale, we integrate healthy snacks and health education into our Early Childhood Education Program as well as our teen and family services and child and family services outreach. We make it a priority to create opportunities for children to build healthy, life-affirming habits through wholesome food, physical activity, and learning. To learn more about how Maryvale supports children holistically, visit our website.