WHAT IS CHILDHOOD OBESITY? 

Childhood obesity is a serious medical condition that affects children and adolescents. In this condition, children obese i.e. above the normal weight for their age and height.

Lifestyle issues with  too little activity and too many calories from food and drinks are the main reasons for childhood obesity. The genetic and hormonal factors are also contributors to Childhood Obesity 

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CHILDHOOD OBESITY? 

Not all children carrying extra pounds are overweight or obese. The body mass index (BMI) that provides a guideline of weight in relation to height, is the accepted measure of overweight and obesity. A paediatrician  uses growth charts, the BMI and, if necessary, other tests to help figure out if a child has weight related issues. 

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT 

Diagnosis : The doctor would be able to consider the child's history of growth and development, family's weight-for-height history, etc which can help further determine if the child's weight is in an unhealthy range. Other Lab tests too can be considered such as cholesterol test, blood sugar test and/or other blood tests to check for hormonal imbalances, vitamin D deficiency or other conditions associated with obesity

Treatment: Treatment for childhood obesity depends on  child's age and other medical conditions. Most commonly, it may  usually include changes in a child's eating habits and physical activity level. In certain circumstances, treatment might include medications or weight-loss surgery.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 

1. The risk factors of childhood obesity may include a combination of several factors such as :

(a) Regularly eating high-calorie foods such as fast foods, baked goods and vending machine snacks, can cause weight gain in children.

(b) Children who don't exercise much are more likely to gain weight.

(c) If a child comes from a family of overweight people, he or she may be more likely to put on weight while personal, parental and family stress too can add up to a child's risk of obesity.  

      2.  COMPLICATIONS. Childhood obesity exposes the child to various  physical, social and emotional implications.

a) Physical Issues : Type 2 Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Asthma, Bone Fractures 

 b) Social and Emotional Implications : Low self-esteem, depression and stress and having behavioral and learning problems, Depression & Stress

      3. Preventive Tips 

• • Limit his or her consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages 
  • Insist on  plenty of fruits and vegetables
  • Eat meals as a family as much as possible
  • Limit eating out 
  • Adjust portion sizes 
  • Limit TV  time 
  • Be sure the child gets enough sleep
  • Make a point to have annual child checkups