Scientists on childhood weight problems have been sounding the alarm for more than 20 years, cautioning Americans that weight problems is on the increase, and processed food and absence of workout are amongst the perpetrators. Now, a brand-new study finds that more than 15 percent of U.S. kids ages 2 to 5 years old are obese-- that's the highest level considering that 1999.

So, how bad is this? Asheley Cockrell Skinner, one of the researchers behind the research study, tells NPR: "When obesity begins younger, the majority of these children continue to have obesity throughout youth and into the adult years. The earlier you start seeing this, the more difficult it is to resolve it for these kids."

And in addition to health problems related to the additional weight, like hypertension and diabetes, overweight kids are more prone to low self-confidence, unfavorable body image and anxiety, according to the American Heart Association.

So, how do you know if your child remains in the threat zone? A fast method to find out is by computing their Body Mass Index (https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm) , which evaluates weight relative to height. Just input your kid's age, gender, height and weight on the CDC calculator to see where your child falls. It's a helpful screening tool, however ensure to contact your kid's pediatrician for a total evaluation.

Likewise, kick-start healthy practices in your house with these suggestions:
- Motivate healthy eating habits - Stock your refrigerator with healthy, nutritious foods and restrict portion sizes.
- Make favorite dishes healthier together-- Get your kids in the kitchen and assist them prepare their favorite meal with you. Teach them how to replace components to minimize saturated and trans fats.
- Limit high-fat and high-sugar foods-- Keep an eye out for salted treats, too, and swap them out for much healthier alternatives that are 100 calories or less (https://thefrisky.com/common-baby-foods-that-surprisingly-contain-sugar/).
- Teach kids the advantages of exercise-- Go for 60 minutes of exercise most days of the week, if not every day.
- Minimize inactive time - Limitation TV, video and computer time to no greater than two hours a day, and motivate fun activities that will get kids moving.

Keep in mind that little changes every day can make a big distinction overtime. The AHA says the crucial to success is to stabilize the calories your child takes in with the calories needed for regular growth and exercise. Most importantly, talk to your kid's pediatrician prior to starting him or her on a weight-loss diet.