The Alarming Truth About Childhood Obesity in America.
Being a new dad these types of emails hit a bit harder when talking about kids and the crazy obesity issues in America.
Childhood obesity is one of the most pressing health challenges in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents aged 2–19 years is 19.7%, affecting about 14.7 million children and adolescents.
Childhood Obesity by the Numbers: Eye-Opening Stats
• Nearly 1 in 5 children in the U.S. is obese.
• Among 6- to 11-year-olds, obesity rates have risen from 7% in 1980 to 20.7% today.
• Obesity is more common in children from low-income families.
• Hispanic (26.2%) and non-Hispanic Black (24.8%) children have the highest obesity prevalence.
• Obese youth are 5 times more likely to become obese adults.
• Children with obesity are more likely to have:
o High blood pressure and high cholesterol
o Type 2 diabetes
o Breathing problems such as asthma and sleep apnea
o Joint issues and musculoskeletal discomfort
o Psychological stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression
Why Are More Kids Overweight Than Ever Before?
There’s no single cause of childhood obesity. It’s a complex issue involving a combination of lifestyle, environment, behavior, and genetics. Some key contributors include:
Poor Nutrition Habits
• Diets high in ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, and fast food
• Lack of home-cooked meals and education around portion control
Sedentary Lifestyles
• Average screen time for kids: 7+ hours per day
• Less than 24% of children ages 6–17 meet daily physical activity guidelines
Limited Access to Physical Fitness
• Many schools have cut back on PE programs
Long-Term Health Risks of Childhood Obesity
Obese children are at much greater risk for long-term chronic health conditions, many of which were previously considered “adult-only” diseases:
• Heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Fatty liver disease
• Certain cancers
• Mental health issues
If left unaddressed, these conditions follow them into adulthood, shortening both their lifespan and quality of life.
Solutions: What Parents Can Do Today
At Jeremy Scott Fitness, we believe the solution starts in the home — with education, daily habits, and community support.
Here’s how families in Scottsdale and beyond can fight back:
Lead by Example
Children model their habits based on what they see at home. If you eat nutritious foods, exercise, and prioritize sleep — your kids are more likely to do the same.
Create Active Family Time
Schedule walks, hikes, bike rides, or fun fitness activities with your kids. Physical activity doesn’t have to be a chore — it can be bonding time.
Make Fitness Fun and Age-Appropriate
Fitness should feel empowering, not punishing. We offer youth-friendly workouts and movement-based games that build confidence and strength without intimidation.
Improve Nutrition Together
Swap out sugary cereals and snacks for whole foods, fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Get kids involved in the shopping and cooking process.
Seek Professional Support
If you’re unsure where to start, connect with a local fitness coach or nutrition expert. At Jeremy Scott Fitness, we offer family coaching and personalized programs that meet your child’s unique needs.
Need help building a healthy routine for your kids?
Reach out to us today for personalized coaching, nutrition guidance, and fun fitness options that work for the whole family.
Childhood obesity is preventable, but it requires action, awareness, and consistent support. The time to act is now — not just for the sake of your child’s future health, but for the long-term wellness of our entire community.
Until next time eat well, train hard & be nice to people.
JeremyScottFitness
The Alarming Truth About Childhood Obesity in America.
Being a new dad these types of emails hit a bit harder when talking about kids and the crazy obesity issues in America.
Childhood obesity is one of the most pressing health challenges in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents aged 2–19 years is 19.7%, affecting about 14.7 million children and adolescents.
Childhood Obesity by the Numbers: Eye-Opening Stats
• Nearly 1 in 5 children in the U.S. is obese.
• Among 6- to 11-year-olds, obesity rates have risen from 7% in 1980 to 20.7% today.
• Obesity is more common in children from low-income families.
• Hispanic (26.2%) and non-Hispanic Black (24.8%) children have the highest obesity prevalence.
• Obese youth are 5 times more likely to become obese adults.
• Children with obesity are more likely to have:
o High blood pressure and high cholesterol
o Type 2 diabetes
o Breathing problems such as asthma and sleep apnea
o Joint issues and musculoskeletal discomfort
o Psychological stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and depression
Why Are More Kids Overweight Than Ever Before?
There’s no single cause of childhood obesity. It’s a complex issue involving a combination of lifestyle, environment, behavior, and genetics. Some key contributors include:
Poor Nutrition Habits
• Diets high in ultra-processed foods, sugary drinks, and fast food
• Lack of home-cooked meals and education around portion control
Sedentary Lifestyles
• Average screen time for kids: 7+ hours per day
• Less than 24% of children ages 6–17 meet daily physical activity guidelines
Limited Access to Physical Fitness
• Many schools have cut back on PE programs
Long-Term Health Risks of Childhood Obesity
Obese children are at much greater risk for long-term chronic health conditions, many of which were previously considered “adult-only” diseases:
• Heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Fatty liver disease
• Certain cancers
• Mental health issues
If left unaddressed, these conditions follow them into adulthood, shortening both their lifespan and quality of life.
Solutions: What Parents Can Do Today
At Jeremy Scott Fitness, we believe the solution starts in the home — with education, daily habits, and community support.
Here’s how families in Scottsdale and beyond can fight back:
Lead by Example
Children model their habits based on what they see at home. If you eat nutritious foods, exercise, and prioritize sleep — your kids are more likely to do the same.
Create Active Family Time
Schedule walks, hikes, bike rides, or fun fitness activities with your kids. Physical activity doesn’t have to be a chore — it can be bonding time.
Make Fitness Fun and Age-Appropriate
Fitness should feel empowering, not punishing. We offer youth-friendly workouts and movement-based games that build confidence and strength without intimidation.
Improve Nutrition Together
Swap out sugary cereals and snacks for whole foods, fruits, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Get kids involved in the shopping and cooking process.
Seek Professional Support
If you’re unsure where to start, connect with a local fitness coach or nutrition expert. At Jeremy Scott Fitness, we offer family coaching and personalized programs that meet your child’s unique needs.
Need help building a healthy routine for your kids?
Reach out to us today for personalized coaching, nutrition guidance, and fun fitness options that work for the whole family.
Childhood obesity is preventable, but it requires action, awareness, and consistent support. The time to act is now — not just for the sake of your child’s future health, but for the long-term wellness of our entire community.
Until next time eat well, train hard & be nice to people.
2 months ago | [YT] | 3