According to the World Health Organization (WHO), obesity is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) significantly higher than the normal range, indicating excessive fat accumulation that can harm health. This condition can affect individuals of any age, including children, and is assessed in children using BMI calculations, similar to adults. Obesity in childhood, like in adults, can lead to a range of health issues that can persist into adulthood.

Causes and risk factors of obesity in children

Unhealthy lifestyles, notably diets rich in high-calorie foods like fast food, baked goods, snacks, sweets, and sugary beverages, are major contributors to childhood obesity. These food and drink choices are typically high in sugar, fat, and calories while lacking in fiber and essential nutrients. Sugary drinks, in particular, fail to offer the same satiety as solid foods, leading children to consume more sugary items. Consequently, this pattern results in an overall higher calorie intake.

Additionally, several factors elevate the likelihood of obesity in children, including:

Lack of physical activity

A sedentary lifestyle, such as spending long hours in front of a computer, television or cell phone screen, and lack of physical activity can lead to an imbalance between food intake and calorie burning.

Physical activity in children is important to burn the calories consumed and has other important benefits for the child's body. Regular physical activity can strengthen muscles and bones, improve fitness, enhance motor skills and coordination and improve mental health and mood.

To prevent obesity and keep children healthy, it is important to encourage them to engage in varied and fun physical activities.

Genetic factor

Research shows that genetic factors can influence a person's predisposition to obesity. Children who have a family history of obesity have a higher risk of becoming obese.

However, genetics is only one of the factors that contribute to obesity and is not the sole determinant of the condition. Environmental and lifestyle factors play a more important role in the onset of obesity.

Family diet and lifestyle

Family habits can significantly influence the risk of childhood obesity. Children tend to imitate the diet and lifestyle of their parents and other family members.

If there are unhealthy habits in the family, such as consumption of foods high in fat and sugar, lack of physical activity, or too much time spent in front of screens, then the risk of obesity in children may also increase.

In addition, irregular sleep patterns in the family can also contribute to the risk of childhood obesity. Sleep deprivation can affect the hormones that regulate hunger and satiety and disrupt the body's metabolism.

The negative impact of childhood obesity

Obesity can have a negative impact on a child's physical, social and emotional well-being. Obesity that is allowed to progress can lead to medical complications and physical problems, including:

• Type 2 diabetes mellitus
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Joint pain
• Respiratory problems
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
• Risk of depression and anxiety

How to treat childhood obesity

Addressing childhood obesity goes beyond simply restricting food intake. It's essential to seek guidance from a medical professional or nutrition expert to establish a nutritious and well-rounded diet that supports your child's growth and overall development.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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