7 Simple Measures To Help Combat Childhood Obesity

This week, new statistics were published which revealed that childhood obesity in the UK is on the increase. The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health presents 7 simple measures which if adopted, will help slim down these figures.

1. Food manufacturers’ influence on younger children should be curtailed by implementing a ban on ‘junk’ food advertising before the 9pm watershed

Food promotion has been proven to affect children’s food choices, purchase behaviour and consumption

2.Encouraging active travel and play should be a priority for local authorities, including 20mph zones

Did you know that the most common cause of child death (after the age of one) is road accidents? (RCPCH: Why Children Die report 2014)

3. All schools should provide lessons in food skills – including cooking –alongside a sound theoretical understanding of the long-term effects of food on health

It’s imperative that no child is left behind

4.Limiting the number of new fast food outlets opening up near schools and colleges

Based on current trends, half of children will be obese or overweight by 2020 so healthier environments must be encouraged

5.Ensure portion sizes are appropriate

Don’t give children ‘man size’ food portions

6.All health professionals should be trained in weight management issues

Intervening early is crucial if we are to prevent overweight children becoming overweight adults

7.Increases in taxation on foods high in salt, sugar and fat in other countries should be independently evaluated, scoped and costed with a view to implementation across the UK

Tackling obesity is everyone’s responsibility...

...Including healthcare professionals, government, schools and you!