Not only are scientists saying that Children of Single Dads See Doctors Less, they are now reporting that children of single parents are far more likely to be obese. The reasons they give behind it aren’t surprising either, though are concerning.
Approximately 43% of marriages end in divorce, and that’s not including the children born into single parent situations from the start. 80% of children who are obese as children will continue to be obese as adults. According to a new study in Canada, children of single parents are 40% more likely to be obese than any other children. This can add up to some very staggering numbers.
So, why do they believe this is the case? What’s behind the numbers? Fist, single parents don’t seem to have enough time in a day. Single parents also have more financial worries. When you add to that the “guilt factor,” single parents can feel they have a lot to make up for. Many single parents try to make up for it all by getting their children fast food more often, and a lot of “treats.” Another suggestion they made that could be a cause is using the TV as a babysitter. “Go watch a movie while I clean, or cook dinner or …”
It’s not just self esteem that the professionals are worried about, thought that is a large concern. The other big concern is health issues. Obesity can cause multiple health issues that could be completely avoided otherwise. Hypertension, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, joint pain and problems, and the list goes on and on.
If you have decided after reading this, that your situation fits some, if not all, of the information above all is not lost. There are several things that can be done to not only stop what is happening, but reverse the effects that are already happening. Deal with your “guilt factor.” Look at the things that make you feel guilty and deal with them. Get up/out and do things with your children. Go for walks, or dance around the house with them when your doing the cleaning. Encourage your children to join one or more active sports. Anything from the team sports like baseball, football, or soccer, to the solitary sports like martial arts, track, or tennis. Figure out how your child performs best and get them involved. One hour of physical activity a day is the minimum amount of physical activity recommended by doctors. Cut back on the fast food and too many sweet treats. Either one of these once in a while is fine, but too much of anything is bad for you. Cutting back on both or even either one of these things will help with dealing with obesity.