When Even Experts of Pediatrics in Littleton Can Contribute to National Defense

Being overweight can mean one less American called up in the defense of the nation. Retired Marine Brig-Gen David Brahms said in a UT San Diego op-ed that the Department of Defense is concerned about 75% of young Americans being unqualified for military service, with recruitment personnel tagging obesity as the leading cause for disqualification. His statement was publicized soon after the American Medical Association classified obesity as an actual disease. This condition has long been regarded as a risk factor for serious ailments such as Type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

The danger of irregular diets and obesity at an early age is not lost on residents of Littleton, CO. The city has several medical practices that actively counsel patients on how to combat obesity; and recently made history as the first city to join the Live Well Colorado Healthy Eating/Active Lifestyles Cities and Towns campaign. Hopefully, more of Littleton's young sons and daughters would keep those extra pounds off, and be able to answer the nation's call to duty in the future. Specialists in pediatrics in Littleton like the ones at Focus on Kids Pediatrics will help in that first step to a healthy lifestyle.

Childhood obesity is usually labeled as such when a child's body mass index is tagged as above the normal levels for their age and height, which is usually above the 95th percentile. Although there are many genetic syndromes linked to obesity, and very few real medical causes of childhood obesity, pediatricians will use a series of physical exams to further assess the patient's status. The results will be part of the patient's medical health record, which can play a critical role if the patient decides to enlist in military service upon reaching adulthood.

If a young patient has been deemed overweight, the pediatrician will explain the situation to the family and recommend a plan of action, which includes exercise and appropriate changes in eating habits. A structured weight-loss program created with help from dieticians will often list the various healthy food items that are appropriate for children. General Brahms estimates that the amount of sugar consumed by American schoolchildren in a year is equivalent to that in two billion candy bars, which if lined up end-to-end, could stretch around the Earth six times.

Brahms said the parents themselves can help by encouraging their children to engage in more outdoor activities and curtail the amount of high-calorie food items present at home. This is especially true during the summer months when children are out of school, and if they do not join summer camps or engage in active sports. However, your rational pediatrician will rightfully discourage the administration of weight-loss medications or gastric surgery for children.

Recent events in the global situation may inspire other young Americans to don the uniform of their country. A Littleton pediatrics practice that is hands-on in treating children such as Focus on Kids can reinforce parents' efforts to motivate children to be physically and mentally fit for duty.