A new research has pointed to soft drinks as the leading
cause of childhood obesity.
The growing numbers of overweight children develop the same
problems as overweight adults. Problems such as insulin resistance,
high cholesterol, and a high blood pressure can lead to serious
diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases and a host of other
problems.
The researchers inform that a typical teen consumes approximately
two 12-ounce cans of soft drinks per day, which adds up to
20 teaspoons of sugar or a whopping 300 calories.
This amount of sugar from just two cans of soda is about
20 percent of daily calorie intake, twice the recommended
limit. And if you add in additional sugars from sweetened
drinks at home or school, that daily added calorie intake
can easily go up as high as 40 percent of daily calories.
Though it may be a natural thing for kids to consume colas
and sodas because it tastes good, efforts should be made to
make them aware of choosing healthier options.
The schools can play an important role in reducing this calorie
intake by focusing more on nutrition classes, health meal
programs, physical education and after-school sports. Vending
machines may be removed or offer only healthy drinks and snacks.
As a parent, you can work towards teaching your children
about regular activity and exercise regimen, along with opting
for healthy eating habits.
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