Childhood obesity is proven to be the root cause of most lifestyle diseases later in life. This often occurs when children show extra weight gain that is similar to those in adults. Obesity and overweight can easily be indexed using the body mass index (BMI) scale. However, it is quite challenging to do so with children as they undergo a series of physiological changes as they grow. Below are some of the most common causes and measures of childhood obesity.
Symptoms
It doesn’t necessarily mean that your child is overweight or obese just because they gained a few pounds. Children often carry different body fats during the various development stages. This usually leaves most parents unable to track healthy weight gain and obesity. The child clinic nurses can use the child growth chart and the body mass index system to ascertain that the weight gain is healthy. Other tests can determine if the weight gain could have adverse effects on the child.
Environment
During the nurturing child period, most parents often lose track of how the environment and the society around them plays a significant role in their little ones’ health and feeding habits. Factors such as affordability of healthy foods, marketing and promotions, and social, cultural, and peer influence are the key influence on a community’s choice of diet. Maintaining a healthy diet for your family is a priority as a healthy diet ensures healthy growth and a strong immune system.
Certain Medication
If your child is on medication, it is necessary to keep track of the child and the prescriptions’ side effects. Several prescription drugs are associated with a risk of developing obesity. Below are some medication that has the latter mentioned tendency;
- prednisone
- lithium
- amitriptyline
- paroxetine
Lack of Exercise
Modern society is spending too much time on sedentary activities such as playing video games and watching movies, which is also a significant contribution to the condition. Simple Exercises are very efficient in building a hardy immune system and burning calories in the body. Playing with the kids in the backyard can be a brilliant start in ensuring the kids lose a few calories during the exercises.
Immediate health hazards
Stoutness during adolescence can hurt the body in an assortment of ways. Kids who are overweight are likely to have:
- Hypertension and elevated cholesterol, which are hazardous factors for cardiovascular sickness.
- The increased danger of debilitated glucose resilience, insulin obstruction, and type 2 diabetes.
- Breathing issues, for example, asthma and rest apnea.
- Joint issues and musculoskeletal inconvenience.
- Greasy liver infection, gallstones, and gastro-esophageal reflux (i.e., indigestion).
- Mental issues, for example, tension and discouragement.
- Low confidence and lower self-announced personal satisfaction.
- Social issues, for example, harassment and shame
Future Health Hazards
Children who develop obesity at a young age risk a severe disease risk during their adulthood. Most of them often risk cancer, type 2 diabetes, and severe heart diseases.
