Will Screen Time Make My Children Fat?

Facts about obesity

● Obesity among children has become an epidemic

● Almost 19% of kids between 6-11 are considered obese

● Children who are overweight at the age of two are more likely to be overweight through childhood and even adulthood

What's to blame?

● Fast food restaurants● Processed food● Oversized portions ● Poor sleeping habits● Less outdoor activities ● Too much TV or video games

AdvertisementAdvertisement and commercials seem to have a great affect on children starting at a young age. Children can start recognizing brand logos at the age of 3. Although TV itself cannot make a child fat, research shows that what children watch (ads for unhealthy food) and where they watch it (in their room or at the dinner table) can great influence a child's eating habits negatively.

How can we fix it?

● Childrens brand such as Disney are starting to associate their characters with healthier choices

● When watching tv, have younger children watch networks that don't advertise, PBS and Noggin

● Most importantly children need more physical activities