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More and more children around the world are becoming obese and are at increasing risk of developing lifestyle diseases due to sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits. A new analysis published in the medical journal The Lancet shows that global rates of obesity have quadrupled among children and doubled among adults since 1990. One billion people in the world or 1 in 8 of the global population are obese with a body mass index (BMI). Children above 30 years of age being glued to the screen and increasing consumption of junk food are some of the factors that are increasing obesity in children. (Also read | Global malnutrition: 1 in 8 people is obese)
Parents should pay attention to childhood obesity as excess weight in children can eventually lead to adult complications like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, joint problems, liver disease which can affect their life expectancy. Staying up late at night to watch screens, not going out to play, and avoiding vegetables and fruits can be problematic and can lead to obesity in young children and teens.
“Being overweight in childhood is a serious medical condition that can affect children and adolescents. Such children are also more likely to be overweight in adulthood. Obesity increases the risk of developing a number of health conditions, including type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In addition, they may also face adverse health effects of childhood obesity such as heart disease, metabolic disorders, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), respiratory problems (asthma, obstructive sleep apnea), joint pain, hormonal changes and reduced life expectancy in adulthood,” says Dr. Sanjeev Dutta, HOD and Senior Consultant – Neonatology and Pediatrics, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad.
causes of childhood obesity
Inactive lifestyle, wrong eating habits and lack of outdoor activities are the main causes of childhood obesity.
“The majority of the child population today spends considerable time in sedentary behaviors such as playing video games, browsing the Internet, or watching television. This has increased their screen time and reduced their daily outdoor activities, leading to a lack of physical exercise , which has led to the obesity epidemic. Easy access to and consumption of sugary sodas and snacks loaded with unhealthy fats, regular consumption of high-calorie foods like fast food, baked goods and vending machine snacks also put your child at greater risk of gaining weight. Eating candy and desserts can also increase childhood obesity rates, says Dr. Dutta.
How to prevent childhood obesity
Some measures should be taken to curb obesity in children and adolescents:
balanced diet: While children love to eat junk food and sweets, it is important for parents to encourage them to eat nutrient-rich foods and minimize their intake of processed food. Eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat proteins can keep the body well nourished and reduce the chances of obesity and lifestyle diseases.
say no to processed foods: Healthy habits should be inculcated in children from the very beginning and to stop them from eating unhealthy things, parents themselves should start eating healthy food. Consumption of fast food, sweet soda, candy and processed snacks should be reduced.
Enroll them in a sporting activity: To combat sedentary behaviour, physical activities should be prioritized for children in schools and communities. Try to encourage your child to play outdoor games and enroll them in sports activities like football and cricket to improve their fitness levels.
reduce screen time: Find more activities for your kids to keep them engaged. It is important to limit their screen time.
Ensure good sleep for your baby: Lack of sleep can cause hormonal imbalance which can increase appetite. Therefore, parents should ensure that their children get good sleep every day.
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