Edison, NJ Pediatrician Offers Advice About Obesity in Children

EDISON, NJ, April 04, 2013 (Press-News.org) Recent statistics from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that obesity in children has more than doubled since the 1980s. Childhood obesity can make life harder for a young person in a number of ways, but the health risks are most pressing. Obesity increases the risk of lifelong health problems in a child and can even lead to diseases like juvenile diabetes and cardiovascular disease. One Edison, NJ pediatrician not only understands these risks and concerns, but also wants to make the public more aware of these issues.

Dr. Nimisha Shukla is a pediatrician in Edison, NJ who has been practicing for over 15 years. She is a graduate of the University of Bombay and Downstate Medical Center, State University of New York. This doctor makes it a point to let parents know "your child is our top priority" - that phrase is printed at the top of her website at http://www.edisonpediatrics.com. Her office offers same day appointments for children who don't feel well and regularly offers tips and advice to parents ranging from "Getting Children to Listen the First Time" and "Picky Eaters."

Dr. Shukla, Woodbridge pediatrician, feels that one of the most important topics on which parents need education is the epidemic of obesity in children. An obese child is above the recommended weight for his height and age.

"A child should have every opportunity to live a healthy, active lifestyle and his parents should have as much education on this important subject as possible," says the Edison top pediatrician.

Parents of obese children have a laundry list of issues to be concerned with. The extra weight can cause cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, sleep apnea and joint problems. As they age they may also be at higher risk for stroke, type 2 diabetes and even cancer.

There are a number of causes behind childhood obesity. One issue is excess sugar and soda consumption. Some children drink several cans of sugary soda each day even though each one contains upwards of 45 grams of sugar. The recommended daily consumption of added sugar for the average person is around 40 grams. Another reason is the consumption of unhealthy fast food and poor meal choices, like greasy pizzas and hamburgers that are full of fattening oils.

A sedentary lifestyle also puts children at risk for obesity. Many children sit in front of the television, computer or video game console after school instead of going outside to play.

But the main culprit behind childhood obesity is probably lack of education on the subject, which is why Edison best pediatrician Dr. Shukla makes it a priority to educate her patients and their parents.

"Parents must empower themselves with knowledge about what they are feeding their kids and how obesity can place undue strains on a child's health. Monitor your child's diet more closely and encourage him to get out there and move around as much as possible," advises Dr. Shukla, Woodbridge best pediatrician.

Edison same day appointment pediatrician Dr. Nimisha Shukla is available for consultations with parents who are concerned about their child's weight and activity levels. Those interested in more information about childhood obesity can visit her website at http://www.edisonpediatrics.com and request an appointment online.

About Nimisha Shukla, MD: Dr. Nimisha Shukla is a board certified pediatrician and fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. She has been caring for children of Edison and surrounding areas since 1997. Born and raised in Bombay, India, Dr. Shukla completed her medical degree at K.E.M. Hospital, University of Bombay. She completed further specialization in M.D. pediatrics from K.E.M. Hospital and served as a Lecturer of Pediatrics at the University of Bombay. Additionally, she completed her internship and residency in Pediatrics at Downstate Medical Center, State University of New York where she was also chosen and served as Chief Resident. Joining Dr. Shukla is Dr. Gauri Bhagwat, a board certified pediatrician. Dr. Bhagwat completed her undergraduate medical training in Indian and also trained in England in Pediatrics for three years where she did her MRCPCH-2. Later, she came to the United States and completed her Pediatric Residency in Saint Peter's University Hospital where she is currently an attending physician.

Media Contact:
Dr. Nimisha Shukla, MD
contactus@edisonpediatrics.com
1802 Oak Tree Rd. Suite 101
Edison, NJ 08820
(732) 548-3210
http://www.edisonpediatrics.com