The importance of exercise: know how to say 'go'.

摘要

Obesity is a complex issue with significant public health implications. Of particular concern is the increasing prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents. Increasing evidence suggests that obesity is an inflammatory state, with elevated markers of inflammation, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), present in obese versus non-obese populations. More than ever before, we are seeing diseases developing in our youth that were usually only found in older adults, including type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. In order to address the childhood obesity epidemic, weight loss approaches have focused on decreasing calorie intake through dietary changes and increasing caloric expenditure through exercise. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that physical activity should be regularly promoted, prioritized, and protected within families, schools, and communities. In addition, it is important that inactivity be minimized to adequately prevent and treat obesity. This article discusses the benefits of exercise, as well as the consequences of a lack of physical activity, how to introduce exercise into a child’s daily life, and how to prevent inactivity.