The rise of childhood obesity
In Hampshire, just over one in five children is overweight or obese when they start primary school. This rises to over one in three by the time they leave primary school.
Obesity in childhood is now more common and we are seeing the risks and health impact of this throughout childhood years. We know that children who live with excess weight are more likely to become adults who continue to live with excess weight and the associated health risks.
When children are living with significant extra weight they have an increased chance of developing other health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes in later life and sometimes even in childhood.
A child’s emotional and psychological health is also affected by overweight and obesity and may continue throughout childhood and into adulthood.
As parents we strive to protect our children and provide them with the safe happy childhood they deserve. This is not always easy but can start with building good habits into each day, such as regular mealtimes, regular age-appropriate physical activity and a sleep routine.
The types of foods and volumes we consume can have a real impact on how we feel. Our energy levels, concentration, sleep, mood and body weight can all be affected and can affect all areas of life.
Building good daily habits and choices as a family can make a big difference:
- choosing healthy food and drink choices (and reducing sugar)
- changing portion sizes for children’s age
- doing daily activity
- creating good sleep habits
Lots more inspiration can be found here:
Living a healthy lifestyle – Hampshire – Parents: Health for Kids
NHS Food Scanner app – Healthier Families – NHS
Recipes – Healthier Families – NHS
Healthier Families – Home – NHS
Healthier food swaps – Food facts – Healthier Families – NHS
