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Journalism of Courage
A RECENT AIIMS study shocked everyone when it reported that a majority of schoolchildren in Delhi are overweight. It8217;s a cause for concern, not only because adolescent obesity sets you up for adult hypertension and diabetes, but also because adolescents are possibly the most prickly group for parents/teachers/counsellors to handle.
Define overweight?
Although the jury8217;s still out on what exactly constitutes healthy weight for the various stages of adolescence ages 12-16, the general consensus is that 20 per cent more than the average body weight for that particular age denotes obesity.
Around 50 per cent of all urban schoolchildren can be safely said to be overweight and, interestingly enough, more of them are girls than boys. 8216;8216;Girls tend to become less active as they grow up. Their biology also has a role to play,8217;8217; says dietician Dr Shikha Sharma.
What risks do obese adolescents run?
Besides increasing the risk of adult obesity, early obesity also enhances weight-related risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertension and elevated cholesterol levels. Also on the radar: Type 2 diabetes and early puberty.
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Breakfast: Fruits and stuffed roti/idli, dosa/dhokla with tea or milk, and juice |
What8217;s a parent8217;s role?
As conflicts in other areas will indicate, a do-gooder nagging binge will achieve little. Instead, try incorporating small lifestyle changes:
8226; Rather than how much, regulate what your kid eats
8226; Avoid using food as a comfort substitute
8226; Restrict getting processed food, or food with preservatives in the house
8226; Make aerated drinks and fried food a weekend treat
8226; Stock up on fresh fruits and vegetables
8226; Make exercise fun, as in a sport or outdoor activity
8226; Most important, follow all these examples yourself. It8217;s no good telling the child cola is taboo if you continue to guzzle it by the crate. Involve the child in your exercise regimen
