Childhood Obesity: Causes, Demographics, Solutions

One in three kids today is overweight or obese. 

Years ago, kids had physical education every day in school. Recess was often spent outdoors on the playground.

Now, kids are lucky to have one day of PE class, and recess is too often cut short.

Why has this changed from years past?

According to Melanie Cole, MS, part of it is due to the desire to "catch up" to other countries in terms of technology and education. There is more focus on academic achievements and less emphasis on physical activities.

But, taking away that activity spurs a vicious cycle. Kids cannot focus without that physical activity. They're not going to be able to succeed in the classroom if they can't "get their beans out," as Cole puts it.

It becomes more of a challenge in certain areas of the nation. It might be dangerous to play outside or walk to school, due to crime or gang activity. Or, if you reside in a low-income area, funds might be limited. 

What parents can do, proactively, is to limit the amount of screen time, whether that is on computers, tablets, phones, or TV. Sometimes that is problematic, because their homework/school work is often required on the computer. Stil, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no more than two hours of total screen time per day.

Listen in as Cole joins Dr. Susanne to share more about some of the causes of childhood obesity, as well as some solutions.