Factors leading to childhood Obesity
July 22nd, 2009Obesity in childhood and adolescence has been related to an increase in the incidence of mortality in adulthood.
Childhood obesity has increased in both developed and developing countries although the pace and patterns of spread of this global health problem differs from country to country.
There are no universally accepted markers of obesity to monitor the secular trends of the epidemic and the impact of interventions in different ethnic populations.
We need a fundamentally different approach to developing and validating measures of obesity in children.
Main causes of childhood obesity:
Environment: Obesity is encouraged by such “obesogenic environment” conditions that promote overeating and inactivity either are already present or emerging in most populations.
The prevalence of television commercials promoting unhealthy foods and eating habits is a large contributor.
Beverages such as carbonated soft drinks and juice boxes also contribute to the child obesity.
Lack of physical activity: The growing use of computers, increased time watching television and decreased physical education in schools, all contribute to children and adolescents living a more sedentary lifestyle.
Heredity and family: Science shows that genetics plays an important a role in obesity. It has been proven that children with obese parents are more likely to be obese. Estimates say that heredity contributes between 5 to 25 percent of the risk for obesity.
Dietary patterns: Over the past few decades, dietary patterns have changed significantly. The average amount of calories consumed per day has dramatically increased.
Socioeconomic status: Educational levels contribute to the socioeconomic issue associated with obesity.
Parents with little or no education have not been exposed to information about proper nutrition and healthy food choices. This makes it difficult to instill those important values in their children.
Treating Childhood Obesity:
Treating obesity in children and adolescents differs from treatment in adults. Involving the family in a child’s weight management program is a key element to treatment. Treatment of pediatric obesity is not accomplished by just dieting. The various treatments of obesity in children and adolescents include:
Dietary therapy: It is often recommended that children have a consultation with a dietitian who can address the child’s needs. Dietitians can help children understand healthy eating habits and how to implement them in their long-term diet.
Education on how to identify healthy food, cut back on portions, eat smaller bites at a smaller pace is generally the information given to change a child’s eating habits.
Physical activity: Another form of obesity treatment in children is increasing physical activity. Physical activity is an important long-term ingredient for children.
Increasing physical activity can decrease, or at least slow the increase, in fatty tissues in obese children. It is recommended that children get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.
Individualized programs are available and possible for those children or adolescents that are not able to meet minimum expectations.
Behavior modification:
Lifestyles and behaviors are established at a young age. It is important for parents and children to remain educated and focused on making long-term healthy lifestyle choices.
There are several ways that children and adolescents can modify their behavior for healthier outcomes, such as:
- Changing eating habits
- Increasing physical activity
- Becoming educated about the body and how to nourish it appropriately
Engaging in a support group activity and setting realistic weight management goals.
