Childhood Obesity - Do you have an overweight child? We offer tips to help your child lose weight and get fit!

The My Overweight Child blog will help you keep informed about the latest research, findings, and resources available to parents of overweight or obese kids. There are many knowledgeable people working on the increasingly dire problem of childhood obesity - and we want to give parents a place where they can check in regularly to see the latest studies and tips available to help you help your child lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

We invite you to add your comments - if you have feedback for the blog, would like some specific topics covered, or you just want to share your experience as a parent dealing with childhood obesity.

Monday, May 22, 2006

Metabolic Syndrome

If your child is overweight and physically inactive, he's at high risk for a medical problem that only recently has begun to affect children. Called "metabolic syndrome," it's a combination of high blood pressure, an unhealthy cholesterol profile, and blood sugar problems. Children with metabolic syndrome often have excessive abdominal fat and often progress to diabetes type 2.

While each of these health problems is worrisome in themselves, those with metabolic syndrome are at 3.5 times risk for athersclerosis and heart disease in the future.

What can you do to help a child with metabolic syndrome? The first step is to encourage weight loss, dietary changes and physical activity. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to treat the problem.

Posted By: Lori S