Preventing Childhood Obesity

September marks national childhood obesity awareness month, offering opportunities for families to address the issue of childhood obesity early. Childhood obesity has a variety of contributing factors, including eating patterns, genetics, physical activity levels, and sleep routines.

Use this awareness month to begin introducing new, healthy patterns into your routine to support your family’s well-being. The path to good health can often start in the home. Read about ways you can prevent childhood obesity early, and walk-in to AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale to plan your child’s healthy weight loss journey.

Can childhood obesity affect my child?

About 1 in 5 American children are impacted by obesity. Compared to children with healthy weight, children at risk of obesity are at a higher likelihood for type 2 diabetes, asthma, sleep apnea, heart disease, and bone and joint problems. Children who have obesity issues now are more likely to have those same issues as adults, which can lead to serious illnesses, clinical depression and anxiety.

According to the most recent statistics from the CDC, childhood obesity continues to rise. Recent studies show that approximately 14.4 million children in the United States have obesity.

Though there is no one solution to addressing this problem, there are many ways parents and guardians can help children have a healthy weight and set up lifelong healthy habits at home.

What are ways I can prevent childhood obesity early?

Children learn by example, so creating patterns of health and wellness in your daily routine is essential in preventing childhood obesity from an early age. Every child deserves a healthy start in life, so here are a few ways you can help prevent obesity at home:

• Adopt healthy eating patterns as a family by eating a variety of vegetables and fruits.
• Help your children move more by making it a family experience. Walking before and after school, riding bikes, and active chores help keep your child moving.
• Replace screen time with family time to improve sleep and boost overall well-being.

How is childhood obesity diagnosed?

If you’re worried about your child’s condition, it is important to seek medical help. Visiting the team of medical providers at AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale can help to determine whether your child has obesity, and what steps to take toward a path of better health.

The clinic specializes in pediatric urgent care, and is here to compassionately help families plan a healthy weight loss journey. Diagnosing obesity begins with calculating your child’s Body Mass Index (BMI) and also takes into account your family’s medical history, eating habits and activity levels. They may talk to you about healthy food choices and the right amount of physical activity for your child– ready to answer any questions and concerns you may have.

Pediatric Urgent Care at AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale

If you’re worried about your child’s physical and /or mental health, consider visiting AFC Urgent Care Hillsdale. Our clinic provides affordable and convenient pediatric urgent care. Your child will receive high-quality treatment from our team of licensed board-certified medical professionals, ready to see your child seven days a week. Visit us today or give us a call at (201) 523-9222 to learn more about preventing childhood obesity.