In 2007, concerns were raised over obesity ranking as the top 3^rd children’s health concern. In 2008, it tops the chart as the number one health concern facing children today. The list, released by the University of Michigan’s C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health, asked parents to evaluate 20 different health problems for children in their community. The results, according to many health care professionals, are not that surprising.

In the year 2007, the top 2 health concerns were drug abuse by teens, with 39% of the vote and smoking, with 40%. While obesity was still a major problem, it ranked just below drug abuse and smoking, receiving just 34% of the vote. This year’s list, however, shows something entirely different. Obesity is now the biggest health concern parents have for their children, receiving 35% of the vote, with drug abuse and smoking coming in at a close second and third.

What is perhaps equally concerning are the presence of three new items on the list: bullying, ADD, and environmental toxins. While there is no definitive link between these items and obesity, some studies suggest that there is a possible connection between ADHD and obesity. In addition, children with obesity may be more likely to experience bullying from their peers. What this says about the current state of children’s health in this country is simple: it is vital to begin focusing on a healthier lifestyle for our children as well as for ourselves. Doing so may not only reduce the risk of medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, but it may also improve the overall happiness and quality of life for both children and adults.

It isn’t hard to understand why obesity is such a problem for children in today’s society. Just take a look at the advertisements currently being marketed toward children and you’ll be surprised to find an astonishing amount of unhealthy practices being glorified. Children are giving up playing outside in favor of spending time playing video games or surfing the internet. While these activities are fine to an extent, a lifestyle built around fast-food and video games inevitably fails to lead to a healthy, active future.

In addition, with the prevalence of fast-food and the overwhelming presence of candy bars, pop, and chips, it isn’t hard to see why so many young people struggle with their weight. Schools contribute to the problem as well, with high-calorie lunches being marketed toward kids. With companies like YoNaturals working to build a healthier future, perhaps we can look forward to a year when obesity will no longer be at the top of the list for children’s health concerns.

Article by Bethany Cox for YoNaturals.com

Obesity is an unfortunate and pervasive problem which continues to affect far too many of our children. If you’re a family affected by obesity, you know that it influences nearly every aspect of your life: you have little to no energy and you may feel helpless to find a solution. The good news is that there is hope, and there is a better life out there for you and your family. It’s not easy, but it is possible. This isn’t a quick fix, but these 5 tips will help you get started on your way to a happier and healthier life.

1. Recognize the Problem:

There are many reasons children—and adults—overeat.  It may be that your child feels lonely and turns to food for comfort. It may be that he or she hasn’t known anything different. This is why recognizing the problem is the first step. Children follow in the example made by their parents. If you’re overweight it makes sense that your child would also struggle to make healthy choices about food. Try finding out why you or your child eat, and talk to your child about any difficult or sad feelings they might be experiencing. The good news is that once you figure out the root of the problem, the rest of the work comes much more naturally.

2. Drink Water:

It’s no secret that children love soda and sugary juices. While these aren’t the best choices of beverage, part of being healthy is staying hydrated. Explain to your children why drinking water is so beneficial to their health. And while you’re at it grab a glass of water for yourself!

3. Buy Vegetables

Check your cupboards. Look in your refrigerator. Do you see healthy vegetables and fruit, or chips and soda pop? As the parent, you are in charge of what goes into the house. The good news is that you can make healthy decisions without sacrificing taste. Look into purchasing a healthy recipe book and experiment with new recipes. If you don’t like to cook, choose restaurants with healthy options and encourage your child to try new foods.

4. Advocate Healthy Lunch in School

Of course, as much as you’d like to, you can’t follow your child everywhere and you can’t control everything they put into their mouth. School food has long been known as a detriment to our children’s health. This is why advocating healthy choices like YoNaturals healthy vending is so important. Children can’t choose to be healthy if they don’t have the option available to them.

5. Have Fun! 

Don’t make exercise a dreaded activity. Have fun with your child. Go for a nature walk or a bicycle ride. Play a game that encourages movement. You know your child best, so pick an activity that is within his or her interests. And make sure you make it fun!

Following these tips, you and your child will have more energy and better overall health. A better life is possible, and you have the power to make it happen one day at a time.

Bethany Cox for YoNaturals Vending in California!