Parents must help to tackle obesity crisis

Hundreds of children across Courier Country have been referred to weight loss specialists as the nation remains in the seemingly unbreakable grip of an obesity crisis.

The statistics, though depressing, could hardly be described as unexpected.

The question is, just what can be done to stem the tide and change unhealthy – and indeed potentially deadly – habits?

Education, surely, remains the best, not to mention most cost effective, potential solution.

After all, nobody purposefully sets out to increase their risk of heart disease and cancer.

If there is better understanding of the risks, the root causes will inevitably be more effectively tackled.

The role of changing pastimes cannot be overstated. Young people these days – indeed people of all ages – have much more sedentary lifestyles.

Technology has changed the way we all live our lives hugely, and not always for the better.

It is a simple and obvious point, but the need to burn off energy has not diminished no matter how many more hours we spend staring at a screen.

Good habits start at home, and if parents set a good example by eating healthily and taking regular exercise, society as a whole is sure to feel the benefits — both now and for generations to come.