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The increasing prevalence of obesity among children has evolved into a pressing matter demanding immediate attention. It can potentially trigger serious complications such as diabetes, heart disease, and other life-threatening conditions. We need to implement early intervention and lifestyle modifications to safeguard the health and future of our younger generation.
World Obesity Day is observed on March 4 every year to come together in the battle against childhood obesity, raise awareness about its prevalence and causes, and empower everyone to take action.
Synopsis
Understanding Childhood Obesity
Obesity has developed into one of the significant health conditions among children. It is a multifactorial condition driven by genetic, environmental, and other factors. Obesity is triggered when a child gains excessive weight, higher than the recommended Body Mass Index (BMI). To prevent and manage it, a multifaceted approach is required to address the diverse factors contributing to obesity in children. We must also promote healthy lifestyles and behaviours, including physical activity, stress management, and other practices.
Obesity in children increases the risk of several health conditions, and a few prevalent ones are:
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High cholesterol
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Heart disease
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Type 2 diabetes
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Liver disease
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Joint conditions
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Respiratory conditions like Asthma & Sleep apnea
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Poor self-esteem, leading to Anxiety & Depression
Common Causes of Childhood Obesity
Childhood overweight and obesity can stem from various factors, including:
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Lack of Physical Activity: The way of living has limited physical exertion in daily activities. Due to insufficient physical activity, children end up eating more calories than they burn in a day. This leads to weight gain and obesity in kids.
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Unhealthy Eating Behaviors: Children who consume insufficient nutrients are also prone to be overweight and obese. Foods heavy in calories but low in nutrients provide you with energy but don't do anything for your health. Regular use of these foods raises the risk of obesity-related health issues.
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Poor Quality Sleep: Sleep deprivation lowers hormones that regulate hunger, making it more difficult for kids to control their hunger and increasing their cravings for sugar-rich meals.
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Excessive Stress: Prolonged stress throws off hormone balance, impairs emotional well-being, and reduces the quality of sleep. Children who are under a lot of stress (academic or familial stress) usually consider eating as a coping method. This leads to overindulgence in comfort foods that are heavy in calories and aggravates health problems associated with obesity.
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Genetic Predisposition: Genetic predisposition affects appetite regulation and metabolism, and factors such as lack of physical activity, stress, etc., further contribute to excessive weight gain. Thus, it is important to consider each child's unique genetic makeup for effective obesity management.
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Environmental Considerations: External factors also contribute to children's obesity and poor eating habits. Children develop a strong craving for unhealthy meals and beverages after watching captivating and appealing advertising that promotes high-calorie foods and beverages.
Consult our bariatric surgery hospital if you need more information on the causes of childhood obesity.
Childhood Obesity Management: How to Prevent Obesity in Children?
Obesity is a complex and multifactorial disease that requires a comprehensive approach to manage it. Below are certain effective measures for parents to manage and prevent obesity in their children:
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Creating a healthy eating pattern is of paramount importance for children to maintain a healthy weight. Have a balanced meal that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat and fat-free dairy products.
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Watch portion sizes and try to have smaller, frequent meals instead of 3 heavy meals to reduce the risk of obesity.
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Be physically active. Encourage your kids to play outdoors when possible and make regular exercise a habit. Excessive screen time which contributes to a sedentary lifestyle can be avoided with recreational activities. Sporting events, leisure pursuits, and organized fitness regimens boost energy expenditure and assist kids in achieving and maintaining an ideal BMI.
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A consistent sleep schedule is equally important to help kids improve their sleep quality and keep their minds and bodies fresh. Children usually need 9-12 hours of sleep per day.
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Set realistic goals and monitoring their progress periodically can influence the success of childhood obesity management.
Childhood obesity is a growing concern owing to its negative impact on multiple health issues. Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (MBS) has become an effective solution for children and adolescents with morbid obesity.
Consult our top bariatric surgeon in Bangalore if you want to know about weight loss programs and surgical options for childhood obesity prevention.
FAQ's
Obesity can be controlled by leading an active lifestyle that includes better eating habits, cutting back on bad food, exercising, and playing sports.
A few of the key causes include lack of physical activity, poor dietary choices, prolonged stress, genetics, insufficient sleep, and environmental factors.
Obesity in children increases the risk of several health conditions including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and high cholesterol – risk factors for heart disease, sleep disorders, etc.
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