Childhood obesity is a growing tendency in the United States of America. Today, one of five children in our country is overweight or obese. It is fortunate that children are not as prone to obesity-associated health risks as adults are. That however, does not change the fact that overweight children are at an increased risk of becoming obese adults with all the health problems associated, Children are also faced with the difficulties of growing up with all the stress and low self-esteem generated by obesity.
Causes of Childhood Obesity
Just as it is the case with adults, children become overweight or obese because of several contributing factors, which include:
Just as it is the case with adults, children become overweight or obese because of several contributing factors, which include:
- Genetic factors. Although it is not uncommon that children of obese parents are overweight, causes for this are not in every case genetic. It is very probable that eating patterns observed and learned from the parents are at the root of the weight issues of the child.
- Reduced or non-existent physical activity. Children need physical activity and if their circumstances deprive them for moving around as much as they would want to, they might start eating, simply out of boredom!
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Medical conditions, such as a hormonal disorder
It is highly recommended to visit a medical specialist before taking any measure in the case of obese children. It is important that medical conditions that might be the cause of obesity are ruled out before any weight loss strategy is adopted.
Childhood Obesity Health Risks
Among the most common health conditions that pester obese children one can find:
Among the most common health conditions that pester obese children one can find:
- High levels of cholesterol
- High blood pressure
- Heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Bone strengths problems
- Heat rash, fungal infections, acne
Deciding Whether or Not a Child is Obese
It is for a medical specialist to tell if a child is overweight/obese or not. Check factors include the ratio of weight to height (BMI), age, growth patterns, etc. Given the unpredictability of growth during childhood, evaluating obesity in children is far more difficult and complex than it is in adults.
It is for a medical specialist to tell if a child is overweight/obese or not. Check factors include the ratio of weight to height (BMI), age, growth patterns, etc. Given the unpredictability of growth during childhood, evaluating obesity in children is far more difficult and complex than it is in adults.
Establishing Healthy Lifestyle Habits for the Entire Family
It is rather unrealistic to expect a child to notice that the eating and exercise habits of the family are not healthy, but it is even more inappropriate to expect a child to take the initiative and correct the mistakes on his/her own. It is essential for parents to become the change they wish to see in their child. It is the surest, quickest and safest way to convince a child, without having to think of elaborate, but empty preaches. Regular, fun family activities with a fair share of exercise such as bike trips, walks, swimming or playing sports are beneficial on many levels: slow, but steady weight loss, lifted spirits, good mood, improved self-esteem, etc.
It is rather unrealistic to expect a child to notice that the eating and exercise habits of the family are not healthy, but it is even more inappropriate to expect a child to take the initiative and correct the mistakes on his/her own. It is essential for parents to become the change they wish to see in their child. It is the surest, quickest and safest way to convince a child, without having to think of elaborate, but empty preaches. Regular, fun family activities with a fair share of exercise such as bike trips, walks, swimming or playing sports are beneficial on many levels: slow, but steady weight loss, lifted spirits, good mood, improved self-esteem, etc.
For obese children it is probably the most important to be constantly assured about the love and support of their parents, as this is a primary condition of healthy psychological development. Feeling accepted and valued also helps obese children to cope with the high emotional demands of social life.
Dr. Timothy Ehrlich is director of bariatric surgery at Griffin Hospital in Derby, Connecticut. He performs minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
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