Childhood
obesity is one of the biggest public health challenges of the 21st century
especially in developed and in
developing countries undergoing economic and nutrition transition.
The problem previously thought to be affecting
mainly developed countries and high income group is now steadily affecting many
low and middle class families in developing countries, particularly in urban
settings. The prevalence has increased at an alarming rate. According to WHO (World Health Organisation)
report the number of overweight children under the age of five globally, is estimated
to be over 42 million in 2010. More than half of these are living in developing
countries.
Overweight
and obesity are defined as ''abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that
presents a risk to health".
The
common cause for childhood overweight and obesity is an energy imbalance
between calories consumed and calories expended. In other words, it's caused by
kids eating too much and exercising too little. Most kids prefer junk food as they think it is
quick, tasty, convenient and also fashionable. But they are unaware of the
calories it contains. Occasionally there are some genetic and hormonal causes
of childhood obesity.
The
society and environment influences the child to eat unhealthy choices thereby
putting them at risk of overweight and obesity. Television commercials
promoting unhealthy foods and eating habits is a large contributor. Children
are surrounded by environmental influences that do not encourage physical
activities.
Risk
factors leading to childhood obesity are
Diet: Regularly eating high-calorie foods,
drinking soft drinks containing sugar. Foods and beverages like these are high
in sugar, fat and calories. Frequently eating food outside home, at restaurants
and cafeterias where child tend to eat a larger quantity of food than when they
eat at home.
Lack of exercise: Inactive leisure activities, such as
watching television or playing video games, computer games contribute to the
problem. Children who don't exercise much are more likely to gain weight
because they don't burn calories through physical activity. Burdening
the students with the studies and academic activities has left no room for
physical activities.
Family history: If child comes from a family of
overweight people, he or she may be more likely to put on excess weight,
especially in an environment where high-calorie food is always available and
physical activity isn't encouraged.
Psychological factors: Some children overeat to cope with
problems or to deal with emotions, such as stress, or to fight boredom.
Cultural
factor: misconception in India that the fat child is a healthy child
Why
should someone worry about children’s weight?
Overweight
and obese children are likely to stay obese into adulthood and more likely to
develop diseases like diabetes, heart diseases, high blood pressure and high
cholesterol at a younger age. They can also suffer from breathing difficulties,
sleep problems and early puberty. In addition to the above physical
complications, an obese child is at risk of social and emotional problems like
low self esteem, depression, behaviour and learning problems and can experience
bullying. These diseases put a huge economic burden to the family and country.
Prevention is better
than Cure:
Overweight
and obesity and their related diseases are largely preventable.
Treating
obesity in children and adolescents differs from treatment in adults. Treatment
should revolve around the entire family and not aimed at that particular child.
Management of childhood obesity cannot be accomplished by just dieting. It needs
to address multiple aspects of the child and the family’s lifestyle, nutrition
and physical activity patterns. Management should begin with assessing the
readiness of the child and the family to make changes and set realistic goals.
Diet
Therapy
A dietitian is involved in treating an obese
child or adolescent, who can address the child’s needs. Dietitians do not
always recommend restricting caloric intake for children. They educate on how
to identify healthy food, cut back on portions, understand the food pyramid and
eat smaller bites at a smaller pace.
Physical
Activity
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.
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.
