Overweight Children

What Is childhood obesity?

Children are considered to have obesity if their BMI falls within the 95th percentile for their age and gender. BMI is used to measure and assess weight status and is calculated based on height and weight. The BMI percentile indicates how a child’s BMI compares to that of their peers. Childhood obesity is a serious health concern. It places children at risk for numerous chronic health conditions, which can persist into adulthood. Beyond physical health, obesity can impact mental well-being. Overweight or obese children and teens may experience depression, poor self-image, and low self-esteem.

What are some misconceptions about overweight children?

Children who are overweight aren’t always better fed. Children who are overweight may not always lose weight during puberty. Childhood obesity may persist into adulthood along with their associated health risks if the habits that contribute to obesity persist. It is also important to remember that not all obesity in children is a result of overeating or overnutrition. Visit a hospital if a child is gaining concerning weight despite standard food portions.

Risks associated with Childhood Obesity?

Children with obesity face a heightened risk of developing various health problems compared to their peers with a healthy weight. Among the most serious risks are diabetes, heart disease, asthma, sleep disorders, joint pain, and mental health disorders.

• Diabetes
  Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body fails to metabolise glucose correctly, potentially leading to complications like eye disease, nerve damage, and kidney dysfunction. Both overweight children and adults are at higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes, though it can often be managed or reversed through diet and lifestyle changes.
• Heart Disease
  High cholesterol and high blood pressure, which raise the risk of future heart disease, are more common in children with obesity. Consuming foods high in fat and salt can elevate cholesterol and blood pressure levels, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Asthma
  Asthma, a chronic inflammation of the lung’s airways, is frequently comorbid with obesity. While the exact link between the two conditions is unclear, obesity exacerbates asthma symptoms.
• Sleep Disorders
  Children and teens with obesity are more prone to sleep disorders such as excessive snoring and sleep apnea. Extra weight in the neck can obstruct airways, leading to these issues.
• Joint Pain
  Excess weight can cause joint stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in children. Weight loss often alleviates these joint problems.
• Mental health disorders
  Overweight children are more likely to be bullied, leading to low self-esteem, poor body image, and anxiety.
• Healthy Eating and Nutrition for Children with Obesity
  Altering the eating habits of children with obesity is crucial. Parents and caregivers significantly influence children’s eating patterns. Healthy eating should begin at home.

Steps to Improve Nutrition:

• Limit sweets and soft drinks: Even 100-percent juice drinks can be high in calories. Serve water with meals instead.
• Reduce fast food consumption: Make an effort to cook more meals at home. Preparing and eating meals together is nutritionally beneficial and promotes family bonding.
• Focus on fresh foods: Center meals and snacks around fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins (like chicken and fish), whole grains (such as brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, and whole-grain bread), and low-fat dairy products (like skim milk, low-fat plain yoghurt, and low-fat cheese).

Encouraging these dietary changes can help obese children lose weight and transition to a healthier lifestyle. If weight loss does not occur, consulting a paediatrician for additional support from a nutritionist or dietician may be necessary.

What are some lifestyle changes to fight childhood obesity?

There are several effective strategies to help prevent childhood obesity:

Increase Physical Activity

Boosting your child’s level of physical activity can help them lose weight safely. Use the term “activity” instead of “exercise” or “workout” to make it more engaging. For instance, playing skipping rope or ampe outside may appeal more to a 7-year-old than jogging around the block. Encourage your child to try a sport they’re interested in or to play with peers.

More Family Activities

Engage in activities that the whole family can enjoy together. This strengthens family bonds and sets a positive example for your child. Activities like hiking, swimming, or playing tag can help your child become more active and start on the path to a healthier weight. Vary the activities to keep things interesting and prevent boredom.

Cut Down on Screen Time

Limit screen time because children who spend many hours a day watching television, playing computer games, or using smartphones are more likely to be overweight. Studies from the Harvard School of Public Health suggest two main reasons for this: first, screen time reduces the time available for physical activities; second, more screen time often leads to increased snacking and greater exposure to advertisements for high-sugar, high-fat foods that dominate food marketing.