Parental Eating Attitudes & Obesity in Young Children

Parental Influence on Food Choice

• Dr. Simi Pakinar writes in his article for Medindia, "Parents' Choice of Food Influences That of Children," that recent research shows younger children's eating habits are heavily affected by female influence in the home. Pakinar reports that children whose parents model excessive eating, poor food choices and poor eating habits, like eating in front of the television, are more likely to be obese. Children pay close attention to the preferences of parents. Choosing healthy snacks and drinks, like fruit and water, sets an example for children to follow.

Level of Physical Activity

• In recent years, overall physical activity in the United States has declined. With overweight and obese children increasing in number, it is important to make the effort to reduce sedentary activities and replace them with more active ones. "Pediatrics," the official journal for the American Association of Pediatrics, recommends that parents and schools partner to increase physical activity during school and non-school hours. By setting a goal of 60 minutes of daily physical activity and encouraging outside play, parents promote healthy habits. Children in families who participate in exercise or organized sports together also have a lesser chance of being overweight or obese.

Modeling Good Nutrition and Health Habits

• Eric Hodges, family nurse practitioner, writes in his article, "A Primer on Childhood Obesity," that many parents lack awareness of their child's obesity and fail to address the situation. According to Julia La Rocca, PA-C, in her article, "Childhood Obesity: Is Parental Nurturing to Blame?," children in the United States are more likely to be overfed than underfed. The risk for obesity starts in the womb, and by taking full responsibility for being a positive role model, parents positively impact their children's health, La Rocca says. Helping parents, particularly mothers, acknowledge the problem and engage in planning a solution enables families to make healthier choices.

Health Risks Associated With Childhood Obesity

• Obese children have a higher risk of becoming obese adults. La Rocca reports that childhood obesity has tripled over the past 30 years and along with it, type II diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea and hormonal issues have increased in children. Even if overweight or obese children have few health problems in childhood, their risk increases as an adult. According to La Rocca, the health, social and emotional ramifications that follow obese children through life increase the risk of chemical dependency and psychological impairment in adulthood.