As obesity has become a growing issue in the modern day, it is crucial on this National Childhood Awareness Month to understand how families can support children in their journey toward achieving a healthy weight.
What is childhood obesity?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a child is considered obese when they have a BMI (Body Mass Index) at or above the 95th percentile of their peers of the same sex.
Estimates suggest that around 10% of children in the U.S. at the age of four and five are overweight, which is double the rate around 20 years ago.
Risk factors
- Family history – Children who have parents or other family members who are overweight are more likely to develop obesity.
- Unhealthy eating – A poor diet rich in fat, sugar, and processed food can lead to weight gain.
- Inadequate physical activity – Lack of exercise and indulging in sedentary habits like watching television and video games can increase obesity risk.
- Psychological issues – Some children who have issues of depression and anxiety may eat more to cope with their issues which can also lead to weight gain.
How does obesity affect children’s health?
WHO classifies childhood obesity as one of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century. Studies have shown that children who are overweight have more chances of developing obesity in adulthood and may suffer from health issues such as breathing difficulties, achy joints, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Jenny Jannov, an Oregon-based pediatric dietitian, says obesity not only affects a child’s physical health, but also their social, mental and emotional well-being.
“Due to excess weight, they are at an increased risk for developing high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, breathing problems and joint issues. But I think it’s the effects on their self-esteem, mental health and social problems that arise that are particularly heartbreaking….
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