Top 10 Crucial Effects of Obesity on Children’s Health and Life
Excess weight in children is a serious problem that needs to be addressed promptly. Parents are responsible for their child’s health and should monitor their well-being closely. Currently, childhood obesity is very widespread, especially in the US and many European countries.Advice:
To determine whether your child is at risk for gaining excess weight, take the unique Parenting Mentor Test right now. You will not only discover if your child is prone to obesity, but also how to prevent further weight gain. If your child is already overweight, expert advice will help you address the issue.
Top 10 Negative Effects of Obesity:
- Metabolic disorders. Obesity can lead to the development of diabetes mellitus and other serious conditions.
One reason may be a genetic predisposition to obesity. If overweight issues run in the family, your child is more likely to be affected. However, genetic predisposition alone does not cause weight gain without additional factors.
Tip: With a proper diet, your child can avoid weight gain. Genetic predisposition simply means your child can gain weight more easily than others. - Poor digestive system function, including conditions like cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and fatty liver (hepatic steatosis).
Cause: Unhealthy eating habits, excessive fatty and fried foods, fast food, and not following nutrition recommendations lead to obesity.
Tip: Track calorie intake and avoid eating late at night. The last meal should be three hours before bedtime. - Cardiovascular system issues. Increased risk of early hypertension and atherosclerosis.
Reason: The same unhealthy diet. Consuming fatty foods causes cholesterol to build up in the bloodstream.
Tip: Remove fatty and fried foods from your child's diet. Opt for stewed, baked, or grilled dishes instead. - Musculoskeletal system dysfunction. Problems like spinal curvature and flat feet can arise from the excess load on the skeleton.
Reason: Lack of physical activity. Sitting in front of the TV or computer for long periods accelerates weight gain.
Tip: Encourage participation in sports and spend more time outdoors. - Depression. Weight gain can cause psychological distress. Overweight children may struggle with self-acceptance, leading to low self-esteem and even depression. In severe cases, they may have negative thoughts up to suicidal ideation.
Reason: Struggling to accept themselves due to obesity.
Tip: Depression is a serious condition. Consult a competent psychologist for support. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help for your child. - Problems in sexual development. For example, menstrual cycle irregularity in girls or hormonal imbalances in boys that may affect future fertility.
Reason: Hormonal imbalance.
Tip: Consult a nutritionist and arrange hormone tests. Follow up with treatment if necessary. - Everyday inconveniences. Obese individuals may struggle with daily activities, from finding clothes to fitting comfortably in airplane seats.
Reason: Fewer products are available for overweight people.
Tip: Physical activity can help, but also seek advice from a nutritionist! - Social isolation. Overweight children are sometimes bullied by their peers.
Reason: Children can be more judgmental and less tolerant than adults, often excluding those who are different.
Tip: Support your child emotionally. Help them find an engaging hobby to shift focus from negative experiences. - Acne and skin issues.
Cause: Hormonal imbalances and gut flora issues.
Tip: For effective treatment, consult a dietitian, gastroenterologist, and cosmetologist. - Increased fatigue. Shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and excessive sweating are common.
Cause: The body struggles to cope with physical activity due to excess weight.
Tip: Exercise is necessary for weight loss, but should be approached gradually. Walking at a comfortable pace is a great start. Add vitamins and fresh fruits to your child’s diet for added support.
There are two types of obesity: primary and secondary. Primary obesity is usually due to a natural tendency to gain weight or metabolic disorders. Secondary obesity results from poor nutrition.
Obesity is classified into four degrees according to several parameters: age, height, weight, and body fat percentage.
1st degree obesity – the child's weight exceeds the normal range by 15–24%.
2nd degree obesity – the child's weight exceeds the normal range by 25–49%.
3rd degree obesity – the child's weight exceeds the normal range by 50–99%.
4th degree obesity – the child's weight exceeds the normal range by 100% or more.
How Can I Help My Child Lose Weight?
To ensure your child lives a full life, it is important to achieve a healthy weight. Don't choose just any diet from the internet. First, determine the cause of weight gain. If obesity is due to poor nutrition, special diets, calorie tracking, and exercise may be enough. If excess weight is caused by an illness or medication, consult a doctor. Only a qualified dietitian or endocrinologist can recommend the right diet and methods for weight loss.