What is Overweight and Obesity?

The definition of being overweight and obese varies depending on what one reads, but in general, it is a chronic condition defined by an excess amount of body fat. A certain amount of body fat is necessary for storing energy, heart insulation, shock absorption, and other functions. The normal amount of body fat (expressed as percentage of body fat) is between 18.5%-24.9% in women and 18.5%-24.9% in men. Women with over 25% body fat are considered obese.

The healthy BMI range varies with the age and sex of the child. Obesity in children and adolescents is defined as a BMI greater than the 95TH percentile. The referenced data that these percentiles are based on is from 1963 to 1994 and thus HAS NOT been affected by the recent increase in rates of obesity.

Childhood obesity has reached epidemic proportions in the 21ST century. As with obesity in adults, many different factors contribute to the rising rates of childhood obesity.Changing diet and decreasing physical activity are believed to be the two most important in causing the recent increase in the rates.

Because childhood obesity often persists into adulthood and is associated with numerous chronic illnesses, children who are obese are often tested for hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver. Treatments used in children are primarily LIFESTYLE INTERVENTIONS and BEHAVIORAL TECHNIQUES. Medications are not FDA approved for use in this age group.

SOLUTION: Exercise and a Healthy Weight Loss Program before your child slides into the above category. Let us show you how.