According to the Centers for Disease Control, childhood obesity has more than tripled in the last 30 years, with one-third of all U.S. children now considered to be overweight or obese.

Although there are some medical conditions that can contribute to excess body weight, most overweight or obese children simply eat too much and move too little. Sedentary activities like playing video games and watching television have gradually taken the place of more active physical activities that would help kids burn more of the calories they take in. And more meals and snacks consist of processed foods and foods high in fat and sugar like fast foods, soft drinks, cookies, and candies.

Unfortunately, obesity in children and adolescents can have the same devastating effects on health as obesity in adults, including an increased risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, certain kinds of cancer, joint problems, and sleep apnea. But just as devastating is the damaging effect it can have on a child’s social and emotional well being.

Children who are overweight or obese may be self-conscious about their appearance and can become easy targets for teasing or bullying by other children. They also have a greater risk for developing depression than normal-weight children do.

Overweight children also may have poorer social skills than other children, so they may withdraw and have fewer friends. Stress and anxiety can result, leading to poor performance in school and other learning problems.

Think about the overweight child who is always picked last for team sports or the child who has difficulty making friends and spends her time alone on the playground. How must it feel for children to be left out of social activities like play dates and birthday parties?

No parents would wish these physical and emotional problems on their child, which is why parents must take the lead in solving this growing concern. You can begin today by taking these simple steps:

• Lead by example – involve the whole family in good eating habits and a healthier lifestyle
• Provide healthy, nutritious snacks for your children instead of high-calorie, sugary treats
• Limit television time and video games and encourage fun, physical activities
• Discuss your child’s weight with his or her pediatrician to make sure there are no underlying medical reasons for the weight gain
• Talk to your doctor if you think your child is suffering from depression or other emotional issues