TABLE OF CONTENT :
- What is obesity and childhood obesity?
- Prevalence of childhood obesity in India.
- What are the causes of Childhood Obesity?
- What are the health issues related to childhood obesity?
- How can we help children to reduce obesity?
WHAT IS OBESITY AND CHILDHOOD OBESITY?
Obesity means storing excessive amounts of fat in the body or in a specific part of the body. Childhood obesity generally refers to those who have a high BMI or more weight than they should have according to their age in children and adolescents. BMI is body Mass Index which is calculated into account of a child’s weight and height.
Prevalence of childhood obesity in India
The prevalence of obesity in India is 40.3%. Zonal variations were seen as follows: south highest at 46.51% and east lowest at 32.96%. Obesity was higher among women than men (41.88% vs. 38.67%)(https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8455012/#:~:text=Prevalence%20of%20obesity%20in%20India%20is%2040.3%25.,than%20men%20(41.88%25%20vs.)
Below the 5th percentile for age are considered as underweight, 5th to 85th percentile, have a normal BMI, and those more than the 85th percentile are categorized as overweight, and 95th percentile are Obese.
What are the causes of Childhood Obesity?
Childhood obesity caused are Genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Modern urban lifestyles like a lack of physical activities, limiting space and time for outdoor activities, and increased use of mobiles and televisions. the diet changes in the modern era referred to as JUNCS ( Junk foods, Ultra-processed foods, Nutrition-deficient foods, Caffeinated /colored foods, and Sugar beverages.
Frequent visits to malls and restaurants and easy availability of fast foods. Loss of quality time with family while having meals and mindless eating habits with screen time play a major role in childhood obesity and causes.
Some hormonal issues like hypothyroidism can contribute major role.
What are the health issues related to childhood obesity?
Pediatric obesity can lead to various health issues in short-term or long-term life. these include type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, sleep issues, joint problems, poor self-esteem, and psychological issues like depression, and pcod.
How can we help children to reduce obesity?
Its a multifaceted approach involving families, communities, schools, and healthcare providers. Avoid force-feeding rather encourage self-feeding with a focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and nutritional food. Parents and caregivers play a major role so they can be te role models, emphasizing healthy eating, exercises, and avoiding shortcuts. rather parents can involve children in food preparation to continue with traditional eating habits.
IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERY CLICK HERE – https://healthywings.in/contact-us/