Obesity in Children

Childhood obesity has become one of the most serious public health challenges which we are facing in 21^st century. The problem is globally affecting many low and middle-income countries, particularly in urban settings. It is a complex health issue which occurs when a child is well above the normal or healthy weight for his or her age and height. 

What Causes Obesity in Children?

There are variety of reasons for the children who are suffering from obese and overweight. Among them the most common causes are, unhealthy eating patterns, lack of physical activity, genetic factors, or a combination of these factors. Only in rare cases it is being overweight and caused by a medical condition such as a hormonal problem.

Health Risks Associated with Childhood Obesity

·         Heart Disease

·         Joint Pain

·         Asthma

·         Sleep Disorders

·         Diabetes

Encourage healthy eating by,

Making sure your child eats breakfast every day

·         Buying fewer soft drinks and high-fat, high-calorie snack foods

·         Eating fast food less often

·         Not using food as a reward

·         Serving more fruits and vegetables

Additional recommendations for kids of all ages:

Birth to age 1: Besides its many health benefits, breastfeeding may help prevent excessive weight gain.

Age from 1 to 5: Start good habits early. Help shape food preferences by offering a variety of healthy foods. Encourage your kids to be active and help them build on developing skills.

Ages 6 to 12: Encourage kids to be physically active every day, whether through an organized sports team or a pick-up game of soccer during recess. Make your kids be active at home with everyday activities like playing outside or going for a family walk. Let them be more involved in making good food choices, such as packing lunch.

Ages 13 to 18: Teach teens how to prepare healthy meals and snacks at home. Encourage them to be healthy choices when outside the home and to be active every day.

All ages: Cut down on TV, phone, computer, and video game time and discourage eating in front of a screen (TV or otherwise). Serve a variety of healthy foods and eat family meals together as often as possible. Serve them breakfast every day, have at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily, and limit sugar-sweetened beverages.

Talk to kids about the importance of eating well and being active. Be a role model by eating well, exercising regularly, and building healthy habits into your own daily life.

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