Is Obesity a Disease? The Difference Between Overweight and Obese
Many parents worry about the issue of childhood obesity. Both developed and developing countries face the challenge of excess weight. One of the main causes of obesity is the consumption of foods high in fat, sugar, and preservatives. Fast food and low-quality products are equally harmful to health. Eating "unhealthy" foods is especially detrimental to a growing child's body. Obese children can face serious health problems, including abnormal development of internal organs and the development of chronic diseases such as diabetes.In addition to posing a serious health threat, overweight children are often mocked by their peers. Only qualified psychologists can adequately address the psychological challenges faced by overweight individuals.
Many parents often wonder if there is a difference between being overweight and being obese. In fact, there is a fine line between simply gaining a few extra pounds and reaching the first stage of obesity, and this line is easy to cross.
Overweight and obesity both result from excessive fat accumulation in the body.
According to the World Health Organization, obesity causes more deaths annually than being extremely underweight.
Obesity is a disease that requires timely treatment. In order to prevent obesity from developing, you should take action as soon as you notice your child is starting to gain weight.
Advice:
If your child is suffering from obesity and you are looking for a way to help, take the Parenting Mentor Test. Developed by professional psychologists, this test is designed to help you find the best solution for your situation.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to determine the line between being overweight and obese. However, BMI isn't always a reliable indicator. When calculating the ratio of a child's weight to height, you must also consider their age and physical activity level. Athletes with well-developed muscles may fall into the 'obese' category due to muscle weight when using this calculation.
According to WHO data, the following criteria are used to assess excess weight in children:
Children under 5 years
- Overweight is diagnosed if the child's average physical development (according to WHO standards) exceeds the norm by more than two standard deviations;
- Obesity is diagnosed if the excess is more than three standard deviations.
- Overweight in this age category is diagnosed when there is at least one deviation above the established norm for age;
- Obesity is diagnosed if the norm is exceeded by at least two deviations.
Risks Faced by Obese Children:
- Cardiovascular system problems. The risk of developing early heart attacks and strokes in adulthood, as well as early hypertension, increases significantly.
- Musculoskeletal system problems. The load on the spine can reach critical levels, with a risk of permanent disability. Excess weight affects bone development as the child grows, possibly causing deformities.
- Endocrine system problems. Metabolic disorders can lead to incurable diseases and syndromes, such as diabetes and insulin resistance.
- Sexual health problems. Hormonal imbalance can lead to polycystic ovaries in girls and sexual dysfunction in boys.
- Psychological pressure. Overweight children can experience serious depression and even suicidal thoughts.
It is easier to prevent obesity than to treat it. Following a few simple rules can help protect your child’s health in the long term.
Just follow these steps:
- Maintain healthy nutrition.
- Encourage regular physical activity.
- Take walks in the fresh air.
- Establish a regular daily routine.
- Ensure healthy sleep habits.
Obesity is a serious medical condition that requires professional intervention, not self-treatment.