Joe (152.163.40.22) -

In a comprehensive review of obesity research published in the August edition of the journal Nature Clinical Practice Endocrinology & Metabolism, Robert Lustig, MD, professor of clinical pediatrics at UCSF Children's Hospital, says that food manufacturing practices have created a "toxic environment" that dooms children to being overweight.

• Childhood Obesity Caused By 'Toxic Environment' Of Western Diets, Study Says

Comment #1 Niranjan from Earth -

Although many children grow out of their over fatness later as they reach adolescence, being over fat as a child is thought to increase the likelihood of obesity later in life. Generally a weight loss program is not recommended unless children exceed the 95th percentile in BMI for their age.

Instead work on practicing healthy habits she will be likely to continue for her lifetime. Set a limit on the amount of time they can watch television and play on the computer. Continue to encourage opportunities for physical activity and play, not just once or twice a day either. Generally at least one hour of physical activity each day is recommended for youth but more is optimal. Find activities or sport they enjoy and can participate in on a regular basis. Be willing to provide transportation to these activities if necessary. Provide your child with the appropriate attire appropriate to the weather and activity. Do not impose your hang ups about inclimental weather to your child. Be flexible and creative. Kids will usually keep active if given the opportunity to participate in fun activities. Offer praise, interest, and encouragement. You must lead by example. Perhaps invite them to a walk or ride them bike while you are exercising, but make it fun for them so they will want to continue. Attend and get involved with school activities and community programs that foster the development of physical fitness, self esteem, and health. Find other activities the family can participate in regularly.

Comment #2 KABIR from around the globe -

Thanx it helped me a lot as my child just keeps sitting on the computer and dont bothers to move out.........

I willl make him participate in sport's events and busy activities...........

What exactly should be the range of her limitations on computer, Should i let him sit for 4hours(not daily) if he insists?

Comment #3 sams from Health World -

I feel it is because we are now getting hooked up either with TV or with Computer. Our childrens are also picking up the same habit. I still remember at our childhood we used to play outdoor games like football in ground. Nowadays we have to force our kid to go out and play. I this the balance is not there.

Comment #4 Nancy from Kansas City -

Do you remember when kids walked to school...

Comment #5 sams from Health World -

Are you referring to the time when kids walked to school? Well distance is a factor. If it is walking distance then they can try and reach school by walking. If you want to mean something else then please give us some more detail.

Comment #6 Nancy from Kansas City -

Anytime when kids generally walked rather that rode a bus. A half hour walk to school and home would do wonders for the health and intelligence of kids.

Intelligence because they would feel better when they got to school and they would have an extra hour for academics as physical education wouldn't be needed.

Comment #7 Kim (207.179.175.29) -

I think the problem lies with today's lifestyles. Both parents in many households need to work, so there isn't much monitoring of children's activities after school. Supper hours are usually rushed, which means fast food or take out.

I think one way to combat this, is to try to limit the amount of treats and junk food that is brought into the house and to introduce healthier snack choices for them after school.

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