The rising number of overweight children is a cause for concern. And not just because they have an increased risk of health problems, but because early weight gain often has a lifelong effect.
Scientific studies show that 50 percent of children who are overweight at the age of six remain so as adults.
And the figures continue to rise. New data shows that:
Around 40 percent of today's teenagers and young adults were already overweight or obese in elementary school.
Children born after 2000 are affected by obesity earlier and more frequently than the generation before them - despite numerous health campaigns.
The risk of obesity in elementary school has increased by 15 percent among socially disadvantaged children.
There are many reasons for this development: in addition to genetic factors, the environment, diet and exercise play a decisive role. What is particularly striking, however, is that in contrast to adults, a lack of exercise appears to be a major factor influencing weight gain in children.
Studies show that today's children spend less time moving and in the fresh air than any previous generation:
More than 25 percent of children spend over 4 hours a day with screens - be it on their cell phone, tablet or in front of the TV.
The natural urge to exercise continues to decrease due to the structured school day, lack of exercise opportunities and digital leisure activities.
The good news? There are simple solutions that can help. No child should be ashamed of their weight or feel that something is wrong with them. It's not about creating stress or pressure, but about playfully motivating them to exercise more.
The best thing about it: it doesn't even have to be sport! Simply playing outside, running around, climbing or discovering the world - all this promotes exercise and health. Children learn best through role models: When adults integrate exercise into their everyday lives, children often do it automatically.
It is up to us to support the next generation - without pressure, but with good impulses.
Sources:
Juonala, M., Magnussen, C. G., Berenson, G. S., et al. (2011). "Childhood Adiposity, Adult Adiposity, and Cardiovascular Risk Factors." New England Journal of Medicine.
Nader, P. R., O'Brien, M., Houts, R., et al. (2006). "Identifying Risk for Obesity in Early Childhood." Pediatrics.
Tremblay, M. S., LeBlanc, A. G., Kho, M. E., et al. (2011). "Systematic review of sedentary behavior and health indicators in school-aged children and youth." International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity.