There is no doubt that obesity among children is one of the biggest health problems today. But like most things, there was a lot of hype around this topic in the media, the voices up for government intervention and the need for comprehensive social reform. Despite these overvalued answers there are a few basic facts that you must be aware of.

In developed countries, ensures the availability of food in abundance at lower cost that nobody, except the poorest, are in danger of starvation. Although it is something that will appreciate the quality of food consumed by today’s generation does not. Fast-food chains, and countless varieties of semi-lip turns snacks are ubiquitous, which means that people are tempted to consume more calories than they need.

Moreover, the Internet, television and computer games made this generation to lead more sedentary lives, when compared with previous decades. Their time in physical activity significantly decreased, that today’s children are heavier in general. Also they are more likely to consume foods rich in fat and complex carbohydrates instead of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and foods rich in fiber. All this always leads to obesity in some.

In contrast to adults, because their rapid growth and rapidly changing metabolism, obesity is measured somewhat differently for children. Besides age, body mass index and sex of the child is taken into account for accurate calculation.

While BMI 30 or more is regarded as an indicator of obesity in adults are overweight child is at the 95th percentile according to Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Another important measure is the percentage of body fat, and it also varies with sex. For example, the percentage of body fat, 25 or more of total body weight is taken as an indication of obesity in boys, but girls indication of 32%.

This difference is primarily due to the fact that the percentage of body fat is naturally higher in women throughout their lives. While the proportion of body fat in healthy men is about 15%, which is around 27% for women.

Regardless of age and sex is the only way to lose weight is to follow a balanced and nutritious diet, along with a fair and regular exercise. To this we must make some lifestyle changes, which fortunately can be reached quickly in case of children. Once good habits are established at a young age, it becomes very easy to implement their teenage years and maintained throughout adulthood.