Dad's Can Fight Childhood Obesity!

You have read about it in the news. You’ve heard about it on television. Americans are heavier than ever, and now the obesity issue is not just “for adults only.”

A recent government report on the issue revealed that the rate of obesity over the past 30 years has more than doubled for preschool children ages 2 to 5 and adolescents ages 12 to 19. In addition, the obesity rate has more than tripled for children ages 6 to 11.

Accordingly, the prevention of childhood obesity is quickly becoming a national public health priority. The condition carries with it a number of serious health implications, including an increased risk for developing diabetes and other chronic conditions.

Solutions for this epidemic vary. Some work with schools’ cafeterias and restaurants encouraging them to offer healthier meal options. National “get moving” campaigns encourage children to spend more time playing and less time in front of the television or computer.

Parents, of course, must play a key role in any solution to this crisis. And although both parents have a part in helping their children stay healthy, the data shows that dads have a unique position when it comes to ensuring that their children maintain a healthy weight.

Does Dad make a difference?

Yes, he certainly does! In fact, studies show that fathers have a distinct effect on whether or not their children will grow up with a healthy weight. Dads who stay active and encourage their children to stay active are more likely to foster healthy eating and exercise habits in their children.

For example, one study found that a father’s Body Mass Index (BMI) predicts both his son’s and daughter’s BMI independent of other factors, such as their alcohol intake, smoking, physical fitness, and the father’s education level.

Another study that looked at diet and physical activity of parents and their daughters over a two-year period found that a daughter’s BMI is predicted by her father’s diet and his enjoyment of physical activity.

Two other studies that have looked at the determinants of physical activity in obese and non-obese children found that obese children are less likely to report that their fathers are physically active than are the children of non-obese children. This determinant was not found for mothers.

Want to learn more?

Fathers clearly have a unique role in their children’s lives, even when it comes to helping their children avoid obesity. To learn more, order NFI’s new brochure titled Helping Your Children Maintain a Healthy Weight. The brochure outlines 15 steps dads can take to encourage the kinds of behaviors that will allow their children to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

By offering practical advice, NFI’s new brochure equips dads with what they need to create an active family lifestyle, help their children get engaged in regular exercise, and improve their diets. Dads will have creative, fun ways to engage in the health of their children at their fingertips

To see all of the National Fatherhood Initiative's quarterly newsletters, go to https://www.fatherhood.org/ftnewsletter.asp