Recommendations to Protect Children from Obesity

A third of the population across all age groups is known to be on the obesity threshold. The rising incidence of obesity in childhood is attributed to families' lifestyles and eating habits. Uz. Dr. Seda Özer from the Department of Pediatrics at Memorial Sağlık Grubu Medstar Antalya Hastanesi shared information about childhood obesity.

Childhood Obesity Poses a Health Risk

Obesity in children is defined as a body mass index above the age-expected normal range. Childhood obesity is dangerous not only because of the psychological and physical problems it creates during the developmental years, but also because it lays the foundation for numerous diseases seen in adulthood, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, reproductive problems, and musculoskeletal disorders. In childhood obesity, genetic factors and congenital hormonal disorders account for only a small proportion of risk factors.

Family Factor is Critical in Eating Habits

The most important cause of obesity in children is the nutrition and activity habits that the family provides to the child. In other words, the lifestyle the child observes in their family affects their future life and health. When looking at families with overweight children, at least one parent or both parents are found to have weight problems. Poor family eating habits, irregular meals, excessive consumption of fast food, processed food and snacks, and a child having no chance to choose their own diet lead to obesity. Children's health should not be put at risk by rewarding them with market products such as sugar and chocolate.

Children Should Be Given a More Active Lifestyle

A child's physical activity level is as important as eating habits in the development of obesity. Walking to school from home would be the simplest exercise, yet such opportunities are increasingly disappearing under current conditions. Children who spend most of their day sitting due to schoolwork and homework obligations have no opportunity to play active games outdoors and spend their free time in front of mobile phones, computers and television screens. Watching television for extended periods exposes children to advertisements for appealing, packaged and unhealthy food products, consequently increasing curiosity about these foods.

Obesity Triggers Many Diseases

Excess weight problems and obesity bring with them numerous health issues in children or pave the way for serious diseases. These include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High blood fats and cholesterol
• Fatty liver disease
• Cardiovascular diseases such as arterial stiffness
• Joint disorders
• Sleep apnea
• Ovarian cysts in girls and associated menstrual irregularities
• Excessive hair growth
• Buried penis and hormonal disorders in boys
• Depression

Ways to Protect Children from Obesity

1. Infants must be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months.
2. Families should make balanced and regular nutrition a habit.
3. Opportunities should be created for children to engage in sports activities.
4. Necessary measurements and blood tests should be performed by a specialist, and the child's current status and risks should be determined.
5. Instead of rigid fad diets, a nutrition plan appropriate to the child's age and activity level should be developed under the supervision of a dietitian.
6. During weight loss, the child should be encouraged regarding weight monitoring, nutritional routine and physical activity.
7. If deemed necessary, psychological support should be sought without delay.