Too fat to Toddle

This TV documentary about childhood obesity is set to highlight the growing epidemic of childhood obesity in our nation. Many parents give excuses for this problem in their offspring such as

a slow metabolism

or

family genes

. However in reality, children are being fed too much of the wrong kind of foods, taking too little exercise and being rewarded with high fat, high sugar foods as treats.

Many parents are confused about food labelling and underestimate how much their children eat.
Not only do parents need educating about how to feed their children healthy foods but exercise must also be encouraged on a daily basis. Food should not be used as a reward and portion size needs to be controlled.
Such education needs to take place from birth onwards if this life threatening trend is to be reversed.
Children who are obese are statistically more likely to develop into obese adults and at risk of high cholesterol, diabetes, joint problems and high blood pressure, not to mention the social stigma and potential for bullying associated with being overweight.