Childhood Obesity Increases Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Across the globe, one in 10 schoolchildren is overweight, according to the International Obesity Task Force, and this growing trend is creating devastating effects for children.

Many obese children are developing type 2 diabetes, which historically had not been seen in individuals under 40 years of age. Diabetes is difficult for adults to manage but is even more challenging for children who are unprepared to draw blood regularly, monitor every bite of food to ensure proper insulin levels and track physical activity. Beyond management difficulties, the real danger of developing type 2 diabetes as a child is this: The longer you have this disease, the more damaging it is to your body.

Another grave effect of childhood obesity is seen in the increasing rates of cancer. According to Dr. Colin Waine, of the National Obesity Forum in London, obese children are up to 20 percent more likely to develop cancer as adults than children of a healthy weight. Dr. Waine warns that as a result, obese children may die before their parents.

Some tips on reducing your child’s weight include:

• Set a good example. Remember that children do as you do not just as you say. Make sure you are physically active and have good eating habits yourself including selecting healthy portions of low-fat, high-fiber foods rich with nutrients.
• Monitor their choices. Many parents are vigilant about monitoring their children's Internet activities, yet they leave eating and activity habits unchecked. Children are in the process of learning how to nourish and care for their bodies, so it is incumbent upon parents to monitor children's choices.
• Guide their choices. Teach your children good habits now and you'll help protect their developing bodies and help them adopt better habits for the long term.

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