Obesity has increased in Western countries by almost 20% over the last decade. The way I see it, this phenomenon stems from various causes and can be addressed through multiple solutions.
One of the major causes of obesity among children is a sedentary lifestyle. Many Western children spend most of their time at home using their favorite devices, such as iPads, smartphones, or even computer games. This is mainly because their parents work outside the home for most of the day, leaving their children to spend their time on unproductive activities rather than engaging in outdoor or indoor exercises. Additionally, they consume large amounts of junk food without supervision. Consequently, these factors lead to many children suffering from being overweight over time.
One effective solution to overcome this challenge is to encourage children to enroll in a gym, especially those whose parents are both working. For instance, my cousin, who has no siblings, was enrolled in a children’s gym from a young age. Interestingly, she has now become physically fit.Another solution is to promote outdoor activities for children, ensuring they stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle.For students under the age of 13, engaging in physical activities at least once a week is essential. This helps motivate them to exercise and stay active throughout the day.In Oman, an annual competition allows children to showcase their talents in sports such as football, swimming, and several other activities, even if they are overweight.
In conclusion, several factors contribute to childhood obesity, including a sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits. However, this issue can be addressed by encouraging children to join a gym or participate in various outdoor activities.