More disturbing news about the effects of obesity on children – A new report finds overweight preschoolers as young as age three can begin to show signs of heart disease. Researchers say kids with high BMIs and large waist circumferences are more likely to have elevated levels of C-reactive protein and lower levels of HDL cholesterol – both risk factors of heart disease – than children who are at a normal weight.
Here are more posts on children and obesity:
Obesity epidemic hits toddlers
Obese kids have middle-aged arteries
How to talk to your kids about obesity
Oh – scary stuff. I must admit to being amazed when I see overweight preschoolers. My kids are so naturally active that I can’t imagine them eating enough to be overweight.
It’s too bad. Three comments:
-Many (not all) obese parents spawn obese children-genetics and behavior. So the cycle will continue.
-The earlier the obesity, the more behind the curve the kids are, ie they won’t tend to exercise as much and joint in sports activities.
-What are we going to do to get parents to see the light? I know it is a very difficult balancing act to make sure kids get proper nutrition.