The Role of Physical Activity in Well-Child Health

Are you looking for a pediatrician in Gaithersburg, MD, and serving Rockville and Germantown, MD? Dr. Farnoush Jamali and Dr. Hanieh Jafarieh at Prime Pediatrics offer well-child visits and more to keep kids healthy and moving toward a bright future.

The Role of Physical Activity in Keeping Children Well

 Being physical is about much more than getting in shape. It is critical for health and wellness. In addition to helping fight obesity, physical activity provides the following benefits.

• It gets the heart pumping, which increases circulation to vital organs. 
• It reduces the likelihood of various health conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and cancer. 
• It helps keep the bones and muscles strong. 
• It increases energy and helps fight restlessness. 
• It is also beneficial for mental health and wellness. 

 How, exactly, do these benefits play out for your child? Our team shares some of the top ways below. 

• Improved Focus and Memory 
  As stated above, activity increases blood flow throughout the body, including the brain. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which helps brain function. This means that children can pay closer attention in school and have a higher chance of getting good grades. 
• Improved Sleep 
  Many children have trouble falling asleep or getting restful sleep. However, with blood flowing properly, excess energy used, and hormones such as melatonin regulated, it can be much easier for them to attain quality sleep.  
• Reduced Likelihood of Injuries 
  Childhood and teen years are full of potential dangers, from playing on the playground to playing sports. Keeping the muscles and bones strong through physical activity reduces the chances of sustaining an injury. 
• Fewer Sick Days 
  Physical activity, increased blood flow, and better sleep can all boost immunity. This means fewer sick days and visits to the pediatrician. 
• Reduction of Mental Health Issues 
  When hormones are regulated, your child gets good sleep, they are generally healthy, and they feel good about themselves; there is a lower likelihood of dealing with issues like anxiety and depression. Exercise is one of the most recommended methods of fighting symptoms associated with mental health conditions. 

Contact Us Today 

Getting children off their devices and on their feet can be challenging, but it is possible. Dr. Jamali and Dr. Jafarieh at Prime Pediatrics in Gaithersburg, MD, and serving Rockville and Germantown, MD, can provide personalized recommendations and guidance for you and your child during well-child visits.

Schedule well-child visits and more by calling (301) 977-2440 today.