Childhood obesity has become a major health concern in modern society, as it can lead to a host of health problems that were once considered adult issues, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. The condition is
particularly concerning because it often begins in childhood and can continue into adulthood, especially if one or both parents are obese. In this article, we will discuss the causes, effects and preventions of childhood obesity.
Causes
Fundamental cause of childhood obesity is the imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended. A number of factors such as diet, lifestyle, socio-cultural factors, hormonal disorders, and genetic causes contribute towards this.
Diet plays a major role in the development of childhood obesity. The increased intake of energy-dense foods high in fat and sugars, but low in vitamins, minerals and other micro-nutrients, is a major contributor to the problem. Excess caloric intake, due to unrestricted access to energy-dense foods at various platforms such as school cafeterias and in school neighbourhoods, is also a significant factor. Additionally, the practice of overfeeding low-birth-weight babies can also contribute to the problem.
Lifestyle also plays a major role in the development of childhood obesity. Lack of physical activity, or overindulgence in indoor leisure activities and entertainment, is a significant contributor. The increasing pressure on children to perform in academics and reduced emphasis on sports is also a factor. Television viewing is perhaps the worst established environmental influence on the development of obesity during childhood.
Socio-cultural factors also contribute to the problem of childhood obesity. Daily allowance to purchase lunch, easy availability of domestic help to take care of household chores, commuting to school by bus or car instead of walking or bicycling, and overprotection and forced feeding by parents all contribute to the problem. False traditional beliefs about health and nutrition, and lack of in-depth knowledge about food in parents and caregivers, also contribute to the problem.
Hormonal disorders such as insulin resistance, hypothyroidism, growth hormone deficiency, and polycystic ovary syndrome can also play a role in the development of childhood obesity. Genetic causes such as Down syndrome and Turner syndrome can also contribute to the problem.
Effects of Childhood Obesity
According to WHO, children who are obese are at higher risk for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, Diabetes and Cardiovascular disease at a younger age. They are also likely to stay obese in adulthood.
Physiological effects-
Diabetes Mellitus
Artherosclerois
Osteoarthritis
Dyslipidemia
High Blood Pressure
Metabolic Diseases
Gall bladder disease
Liver diseases
Asthma
Sleep Apneoa
Iron Deficiency
Poor Immunity
Premature Death in later stage
Psychological effects-
Depression
Anxiety
Low self esteem
Disordered eating
Behavioral problems
Poor academic performance
Prevention
To prevent childhood obesity, it is important to encourage healthy eating habits, make favorite dishes healthier, limit your child's consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, include plenty of fruits and vegetables in their diet, and have meals with family as often as possible. Eating out should be limited, especially fast-food, and when you do eat out, teach your child how to make healthier choices. Portion sizes should be adjusted appropriately according to their age. Limiting TV and other "screen time" to less than 2 hours a day for children older than 2, and not allowing television for children younger than 2 is recommended. Children should also get enough sleep. Parents should set a good example for their children by being physically active themselves, and help kids stay active by encouraging 60 minutes of moderate physical activity daily.
Nutrition education and healthy eating habits should be emphasized in schools and at home. Parents should also take an active role in educating their children about the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise. This can include cooking healthy meals together, encouraging physical activity, and limiting access to unhealthy foods.
In addition, parents should be mindful of their own habits and set a positive example for their children. This can include making healthy food choices, being physically active, and limiting screen time.
It's also important to note that childhood obesity is not only a problem of individual responsibility but also a societal one, where environment, culture and policies play a crucial role. Government policies, schools, and communities should provide opportunities for children and families to engage in physical activity, healthy food choices, and healthy environments.
Childhood obesity is a serious concern that can lead to a host of health problems, and can continue into adulthood. It is caused by a combination of factors, including diet, lifestyle, socio-cultural factors, hormonal disorders, and genetic causes. To prevent childhood obesity, it is important to encourage healthy eating habits, physical activity, and limit screen time. Parents should take an active role in educating their children about the importance of healthy eating and regular exercise and also advocate for policies that support healthy lifestyles for children.
Content Credits
Dr Sheetal Badami
Author
Comments