Childhood Obesity is defined as the condition in which excessive accumulation of fatty deposits negatively affects a child’s wellbeing. Obesity is prevalent in all age groups. However there is an increased likelihood of childhood obesity persisting into adulthood.

Body Mass Index or BMI is one of the accepted methods of determining body fat. BMI varies according to age and sex and it is best to discuss this with the child’s doctor in order to determine the presence of obesity.

Serious health conditions associated with childhood obesity include pediatric hypertension, an increased risk of coronary diseases and Type II diabetes mellitus. It also increases the stress on the weight-bearing joints and poses severe social and psychological problems. While genetics and medical conditions such as Hypothyroidism and Cushing’s syndrome play a significant role in the onset of this condition, other environmental factors too play a large role. Poor dietary choices and a sedentary lifestyle are considered to be the most significant contributors to childhood obesity.

Childhood obesity is much easier to prevent than to treat. Prevention of childhood obesity lies mainly in the parents’ knowledge of preventative measures. Healthy low-fat snacks, adequate exercise and activities, and ideal nutrition are all extremely important in preventing childhood obesity. It is also necessary to avoid stocking the refrigerator with fatty snacks and junk food. It is also important to monitor the amount of time a child spends in sedentary activities. It is better to encourage – but not force, physical activities and sports.

To treat childhood obesity, it is important to make changes to the family environment. Weight loss programs, too, should involve the entire family so that the child does not feel singled out. Childhood obesity can cause severe depression and feelings of being ostracized. It is therefore important to make the child feel accepted, especially when bringing about any changes to daily habits.

Lifestyle Modification

It is important to foster a healthy lifestyle for the entire family. Television timings and computer games should be restricted. Sports and games in which the entire family can participate help to increase the amount of daily physical activity. Increase the family intake of healthy foods such as fresh fruits and salads. Vegetable and carrot slices with a yogurt dip, form a tasty and nutritious snack. Fresh fruit juices or milkshakes too are very healthy choices. Do not insist on larger servings of salads; instead make two salads so that even small to moderate servings will ensure a larger intake of salads. Experiment with vinaigrettes to make your salads appetizing.

If obesity continues despite these changes, a visit to the doctor would be necessary to rule out medical conditions associated with obesity.