Childhood Obesity And Prevention: Risk Factors Of Childhood Overweight
How To Prevent Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity is a condition in which a child’s excessive weight has reached a point where it is harmful to the child’s health. This is a serious problem today, especially in many developed countries. Obesity is always harmful to health, but during childhood its effects tend to be more wide-ranging and long-lasting. Childhood obesity can lead to metabolic disorders such as diabetes and liver problems, gastrointestinal problems, and respiratory problems. Cardiovascular problems can also develop, including a greater risk of developing coronary heart disease in adulthood. Skin problems and disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system are also known to occur. In many cases, the child may also suffer from psychological and social problems as a result of his or her appearance and diminished physical capabilities.
Prevention of childhood obesity requires an understanding of the underlying causes of the problem. Most of the factors that cause obesity are within our control. Diet is of course a very important factor, and it is essential to inculcate good dietary habits from an early age. Later restrictions are usually unsuccessful as they cannot be implemented all the time and in all situations. Restrictions implemented at home may be ignored while at school or with friends, and so on. The habit of eating healthy foods should therefore be instilled as early as possible. Junk food, colas, and other soft drinks are thought to be major culprits, and should not be allowed to become part of a child’s regular diet – they should be only occasional indulgences.
Lifestyle is another important factor – children who do not engage in much physical activity are highly likely to be obese. This too is a habit that is difficult to change once it has set in. It begins in childhood and is carried on into later life, and children must therefore be encouraged to engage in sports and other physical activities. Children who prefer activities that are less competitive or group-oriented can be encouraged to take up activities such as cycling, swimming, or walking. Performing household chores can help too. Playing video games and using the computer should be limited or perhaps even made dependent on completion of other activities.
It is also important to note other factors such as breast-feeding and early nutrition. Some studies have shown that breast-fed babies are healthier and less likely to become obese. Other studies have also shown that early malnutrition may contribute to later obesity, possibly by changing the body’s metabolism.
