One of the rising issues currently is childhood obesity and it has become a public health concerns due to its impact on the well-being of children. Knowledge of the prevention and treatment mechanisms is vital to both families and communities as well.
Prevention Strategies
Have you heard the phrase prevention is always better than cure? This is why prevention starts with creating awareness. Health officers and care givers should ensure that children take nutritious foods and balanced diets. One thing that should be avoided greatly is processed foods that are known to have high sugar levels and fat. Schools also have responsibility in offering healthy meals through the school cafeteria and educating students on nutrition.
Another approach for the prevention is physical activity. Do you know that children require 60 minutes every day of moderate to vigorous physical activity? This types of activities include games and other tasks which involve movement, exercises or plays. Reducing time on screens, televisions, computers and mobile phones should be priority.
Treatment Approaches
Do you know that precise treatment is required for children who are already struggling with obesity? It has been noted that cooperation with other unrelated professionals such as doctors, nutritionists and counselor among others. Plans and counselling by those affected should contain concrete goals, and one should never be in a hurry for quick fixes.
Behavioral therapy should be one that can help children and their families change and develop healthier behaviors. Family engagement should be promoted because it is a sign of support all through the period.
In extreme instances, a child with severely obese situations they can seek medical assistance. The medical assistance may include medication or in a few instances surgery which is the last option when their doctors say it’s the remaining choice.
PHOTO CREDIT:GOOGLE.COM
WRITTEN BY: AMEDICC.COM