WHAT IS CHILDHOOD OBESITY?

Childhood obesity is a medical condition where a child has excess body fat that negatively affects their health. It happens when children consume more calories than they burn, leading to weight gain beyond what’s healthy for their age and height.

How is Childhood Obesity Measured?

Doctors use Body Mass Index (BMI) to determine if a child is overweight or obese.
✅ Overweight – BMI is between the 85th and 94th percentile for their age and sex.
✅ Obese – BMI is at or above the 95th percentile for their age and sex.

📌 Note: BMI is not a perfect measurement, so doctors also check growth patterns, body fat percentage, and overall health.

Childhood obesity is usually caused by a combination of poor diet, lack of exercise, and genetic factors.

1️ Poor Diet 🍕🥤

• Eating too much junk food, sugary drinks, and fast food.
• High-calorie, low-nutrient diets (processed snacks, fried foods).
• Excessive sugar intake (sodas, candies, desserts).

2️ Lack of Physical Activity 🏀📱

• Spending too much time on screens (TV, video games, phones).
• Not getting enough outdoor play or exercise.
• Sitting for long hours (school, homework, online activities).

3️ Genetics & Family History 🧬

• If parents are overweight, kids are more likely to be overweight.
• Some children inherit a slower metabolism.

4️ Emotional & Psychological Factors 😔

• Stress, anxiety, and depression can lead to emotional eating.
• Using food as a way to cope with boredom or sadness.

5️ Medical Conditions & Medications 💊

• Some hormone disorders (hypothyroidism) can lead to weight gain.
• Certain medications (steroids, antidepressants) may increase appetite.

Obesity can lead to serious long-term health problems, including:

1️ Physical Health Issues 🏥

❌ Type 2 diabetes – High blood sugar levels can cause lifelong complications.
❌ High blood pressure & heart disease – Increases risk of stroke later in life.
❌ Sleep apnea – Trouble breathing while sleeping.
❌ Joint problems – Extra weight puts stress on knees and ankles.

2️ Emotional & Social Problems 😞

❌ Low self-esteem & bullying – Overweight kids may be teased or feel left out.
❌ Depression & anxiety – Feeling insecure about body image.
❌ Eating disorders – Unhealthy relationship with food.

How to Prevent Childhood Obesity?

Parents and caregivers can help by promoting healthy eating, exercise, and good lifestyle habits.

🍎 Healthy Diet Tips

✅ Encourage fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
✅ Limit sugar, sodas, and fast food.
✅ Choose water over sugary drinks.
✅ Serve home-cooked meals instead of processed foods.

🏃 Physical Activity Tips

✅ At least 1 hour of daily exercise (sports, biking, swimming).
✅ Reduce screen time (TV, phones, video games) to less than 2 hours per day.
✅ Encourage outdoor play and activities as a family.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Lifestyle Changes

✅ Eat meals together at the table (less mindless eating).
✅ Make exercise fun (dancing, hiking, playing outside).
✅ Be a role model—kids follow their parents' habits.

When to See a Doctor?

If your child is gaining weight quickly or showing signs of obesity-related health problems, consult a doctor or nutritionist for:
✔️ A BMI check-up
✔️ A personalized nutrition plan
✔️ Medical tests if needed