More than 20% of German kids and adolescents are overweight or even obese. The reasons for this problem are diverse, as are the ways of combating it. Ideally however, we should try and prevent the onset as early as possible by consciously fostering good nutritional habits.
Overweight children, a dangerous trend
Overweight and eating disorders are becoming more and more common in developed countries. By now, this phenomenon has expanded way beyond the often quoted Fast Food-Nation, the US. The tendency has taken over globally, and, according to a study by the German ministry for nutrition, agriculture and consumer protection (BMELV), more than 20% of children are too fat. The first line of defence for this issue are, of course, the parents. Genetic heritage is an explanation, but certainly not an excuse – with the right nutrition, the fight against this pandemic can be won.
Wearing thin?
Healthy weight management doesn’t exclusively deal with overweight problems. The other side of the coin, underweight in children, can be equally dangerous. In Germany about 8% of children between 6 and 10 are underweight. You should avoid forming judgment based on a snapshot in time, but try to be observant about the child’s growth and development over longer periods. If your child displays signs of being particularly thin for a sustained period, you have to act.
