Childhood obesity is a health crisis in America and abroad. Lack of exercise, or physical inactivity, is a major contributor to childhood obesity.

The problem is much deeper than just unattractiveness from being overweight or obese. Obesity has implications for long-term health problems that carry into adulthood.

Childhood: obesity, lack of exercise and developing health problems.
Researchers Nader et al., at the University of California San Diego, reported (in July 2008) significant decreases in moderate-to-vigorous activity in children between ages 9 - 15.

In May 2008, a German research team led by Roth found one third of the obese children had mental disorders and behavior problems.

Other studies connect childhood obesity with cardiovascular disease, compromised cognitive function, and decreased bone strength.

Childhood obesity: growing into adult health problems.
Cutting-edge research (July 2008) at Tulane University in New Orleans, by Nguyen et al., shed insight onto the effects on adulthood of childhood obesity and metabolic syndrome. Specifically, they noted that metabolic syndrome, adiposity, and glucose homeostasis in children are predictors for adult diabetes.

Preventing disease in adulthood.
British study at the University of Southamptom, published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine in May 2008, revealed that having a strong sense of control over one's life in childhood had protective qualities that prevented adult health problems like obesity, stress and hypertension.

An Australian study at Deakin University by Tempirio and colleagues looked at changing sedentary behaviors and increasing physical activity in households. One conclusion was that sibling physical activity and environmental stimuli in the home may prevent weight gain during the transition from childhood to adolescence. In other words, keeping older kids active will also keep younger kids active. And providing children with equipment and toys will keep them active.

If we truly care about our children, and their adulthood, we will:
* practice physical activity with them,
* be role models for the importance of exercise,
* give them opportunities for physical activity, and
* PLAY with them!

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