Childhood obesity and diabetes are not only adult diseases but also pose significant risks to children. Studies have shown that since 1970, childhood obesity has increased threefold, and it is predicted that one-third of children born after 2000 will develop type 2 diabetes in their lifetime. The situation is alarming, and the New England Journal of Medicine states that "America’s children will be the first in the nation’s history to live shorter lives than their parents."
This issue is not limited to America; lifestyle diseases like diabetes and obesity are affecting children worldwide, including India, where 14.4 million children are overweight. It is essential for parents to take action to prevent their children from falling prey to these diseases. By implementing good dietary and behavioral practices at a young age, parents can lead their children towards a healthier future. Here are six practical solutions parents can try:
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Set a Good Example - Children learn from their parents, so it is essential for parents to lead by example. By adopting a responsible approach to dietary habits and fitness regimes, parents can instill healthy behaviors in their children.
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Encourage Physical Activity - Parents should inspire their children to play sports and remain physically active. This will help children build a strong psyche and develop teamwork skills, among other benefits.
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Maintain a Healthy Diet - Parents should consult with a dietician to create a dietary plan that includes vital ingredients such as low GI foods, wholesome fruits and vegetables, and diary. Parents should avoid acting as an authority figure and allow cheat days to enjoy a few comfort food items.
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Limit Visits to Unhealthy Restaurants - Quick-service restaurants and eateries often use ingredients that can harm a child's health. Parents should encourage visits to such places only during celebrations and educate children about unhealthy food choices.
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Control Advertising and Media Exposure - Children can be easily influenced by online and traditional media channels that promote unhealthy foods. Parents should limit their children's media exposure and employ measures such as ad-free content services like Netflix, ad blockers, and recording children's shows to skip advertisements.
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Check Labels for Processed Foods - Parents should check nutritional labels on processed foods to ensure that food items are not loaded with sugar, trans fat, triglycerides, and other unwanted dietary ingredients.
By implementing these practical solutions, parents can create an environment where their children can lead healthier lives and avoid the risks of obesity and diabetes.
बचपन में मोटापा और मधुमेह न केवल वयस्क रोग हैं बल्कि बच्चों के लिए भी बड़ी खतरा पैदा करते हैं। अध्ययनों से पता चलता है कि 1970 से बचपन में मोटापा तीन गुना बढ़ गया है और यह भी भविष्य में दर्शाता है कि 2000 के बाद जन्मे बच्चों में से एक-तिहाई लोग अपनी जिंदगी में टाइप 2 मधुमेह का विकास करेंगे। यह स्थिति चिंताजनक है और न्यू इंग्लैंड जर्नल ऑफ मेडिसिन का कहना है कि "अमेरिका के बच्चे इस देश के इतिहास में अपने माता-पिता से कम समय तक जीवित रहने वाले पहले बच्चे होंगे।"
यह मुद्दा अमेरिका से सीमित नहीं है; मधुमेह और मोटापा जैसी जीवन शैली संबंधी बीमारियां विश्वभर में बच्चों को प्रभावित कर रही हैं, भारत सहित, जहां 14.4 मिलियन बच्चे अधिक वजन वाले हैं। इन बीमारियों से अपने बच्चों को बचाने के लिए माता-पिता को कार्रवाई उठाना अत्यंत आवश्यक है। एक युवा आयु में अच्छे आहार और व्यवहारिक अभ्यास अमल में लाने से, माता-पिता अपने बच्चों को एक स्वस्थ भविष्य की ओर ले जा सकते हैं।