Swine flu H1N1 and childhood obesity: Is there a connection?

There seems to be an overwhelming number of obese patients that have caught the H1N1 virus.  So it leads one to ask -- is there a connection between the two?  Is obesity a swine flu H1N1 risk factor? 

These questions have led to some research regarding this surprising trend because although it has been known for many years now that not being at your healthiest does increase your chance of any disease (of course), being obese has not been a risk factor in seasonal flu.  So it is a serious curiosity to see a possible connection between this novel and significantly potent enigma.  

Minnesota's Twin Cities Pioneer Press just emerged a few days ago with three more deaths due to the H1N1 virus.  "Obesity link emerges".  Dr. Ruth Lynfield, state epidemiologist, states that it is difficult to state clearly whether or not obesity itself causes more complications, but what has been noted is that "the rates of deaths and  hospitalizations among obese people is notably higher".  It has been reported that in many states across the U.S. that a significantly higher proportion of those who have had severe illness from this flu have been either obese or morbidly obese.

So, what is one to do?  How can one protect their children and families?  We are finding that families are working together, many of them now adults with a history of battling with childhood and then adult obesity, and are combining efforts to help combat this epidemic.  A mother-son fitness expert team in New York share their insight and experiences into how confronting obesity can actually protect families against the H1N1 virus.  

The moral of the story is to do your best to keep your kids at a healthy weight -- provide healthy meals and snacks with lots of fruits and vegetables, offer healthy alternatives for your children and have them handy, encourage and facilitate active play and physical activity for your children, and take all necessary appropriate precautions.  Stay up-to-date with reliable information (CDC H1N1).  And, very important, remember that your kids will take the initiative of a healthy lifestyle from your example more than from any other place or person!

Picture by macromagnon, PhotoXpress

For more info:  my training zone - child and adolescent weight management specialists