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Step Up To Soccer 2008
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About |
We are alarmed by the rising epidemic of obesity among children. We believe that educators and parents can help children achieve balanced and healthy lifestyles. (Links to more detailed information are listed at the bottom of this article.) We present here facts, causes and recommendations from the CDC, the Surgeon General and a British study: The percent of overweight children ages 6-9 has more than doubled (to 15%) since 1980. Some children as young as 3 display a sedentary lifestyle that increases their risk of obesity later in life. Overweight adolesents have a 70% chance of becoming overweight or obese adults. Risk factors for heart disease and type 2 diabetes are increased in overweight children. Overweight children perceive social discriminations, leading to poor self-esteem and depression. Causes: A lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating patterns, or a combination of the two. Genetics also plays a role. Our society has become very sedentary. Television, computer and video games contribute to children's inactive lifestyles. Recommendations: Present recommendations suggest that children need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise each day. Adolescents should engage in three or more sessions per week of activities that last 20 minutes or more at a time. Weight lost during a diet is frequently regained unless children are motivated to change their eating habits and activity levels for a lifetime. The following links provide more detailed information: Surgeon General's Call to Action Recommendations for Young People (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Young Couch Potatoes (U.S. Dept. of Health) Childhood Obesity (National Institutes of Health) Testimony (U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) |
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