A healthy active lifestyle the best way to avoid obesity
THE World Health Organization (WHO) states that over 4 million people die every year as a result of being overweight. One in eight children in South Africa are obese.
A recent survey (SANHNS) reported obesity in 13.5% of children aged 6-14 years, 10% higher than the global prevalence. Overweight adolescents become obese adults. Few overweight adults consider themselves obese.
The most obvious cause of obesity is overeating and under-exercising. Also bad food choices, family eating habits, sugary drinks, ultra-processed foods and lazy parents. Obesity in children can cause a myriad of health and social problems – type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated blood cholesterol, liver disease, sleep apnea, respiratory problems, bone and joint problems to name a few.
On the social side, obese kids are teased and bullied. This results in low esteem, a lack of confidence and a poor body image that, in turn, can lead to anxiety and depression as well as poor academic performance.
The key to a child’s development is the participation in a physical activity. Children need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity a day. Participation in sport has a number of benefits.
It improves co-ordination and balance and this helps with fine and gross motor skills. It increases stamina and strength. It can ward off disease and keeps the body in good shape. Sport also promotes a good self-image and enhances self-esteem. The mind stays healthy as it reduces stress and creates a positive mood thus decreasing anxiety and depression.
The social benefits include friendships that are formed, working together as a team and good sportsmanship (winning and losing). It helps kids gain leadership skills.
Sport has also been linked to a decrease in drug use and teen pregnancy. Mens sana in corpore sano (a sound mind in a sound body) is absolutely essential. So, get the kids moving, and away from the cellphones and computer games.