Health Watch — Obesity Dangers: Childhood Obesity
Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
This week on Health Watch, we’re talking about the health risks associated with obesity and the lifestyles that contribute to obesity. The statistics about obesity in children are alarming: a third of American children and teens are obese. That makes them more likely to grow up to be obese adults, and it means they’re likely to develop health problems associated with obesity, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, at a younger age.
Cindy Cunningham, a nutritionist at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says obesity prevention starts early in life. If possible, breastfeed infants and start introducing solid foods at four to six months of age. Feed when you recognize the child’s hunger signs, and don’t use food as a pacifier. During childhood, introduce healthy foods into your child’s diet. You may have to offer a food several times before it’s familiar enough to be accepted, and keep nutritious foods handy for snacks.
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September 2007
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