Reasons and causes of childhood Obesity
Reasons and causes of childhood Obesity
Share:

Childhood obesity continues to be a serious health issue in India. The main cause of childhood obesity is the behavior children pick up from their parents and caregivers. Childhood obesity is a complex disease that can occur when your child is above a healthy weight for their age and height. The medical definition of childhood obesity is having a body mass index at or above the 95th percentile.

Causes of Childhood Obesity

  • Junk food: foods, such as frozen dinners, salty snacks, and canned pasta, can also contribute to unhealthy weight gain. Some children develop obesity because their parents don’t know how to choose or prepare healthy foods. Other families may not be able to easily afford fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats.
  • Less physical activity:  People of all ages tend to gain weight when they’re less active. Exercise burns calories and helps you maintain a healthy weight. Children who aren’t encouraged to be active may be less likely to burn extra calories through sports, time on the playground, or other forms of physical activity.
  • Genetics. Obesity has a strong genetic component. .... ...
  • Insulin. ...
  • Certain Medications. ...

 

 You can prevent childhood obesity by following ways

  • Prioritize fruits and vegetables. When food shopping, cut back on convenience foods — such as cookies, crackers and prepared meals — which are often high in sugar, fat and calories.
  • Limit sweetened beverages. This includes beverages that contain fruit juice. These drinks provide little nutritional value in exchange for their high calories. They can also make your child feel too full to eat healthier foods.
  • Switch of TV while having food. Recreational screen time — in front of a TV, computer, tablet or smart phone — should be limited to no more than two hours a day for children older than 2. Children younger than 2 should have no screen time at all.
  • Focus on physical activity, not exercise. Children should be moderately to vigorously active for at least an hour a day. Your child's activity doesn't have to be a structured exercise program — the object is to get him or her moving. Free-play activities — such as playing hide-and-seek, tag or jump-rope — can be great for burning calories and improving fitness.
  • Be creative: Some kids get bored easily and won’t be intrigued by monotonous forms of exercise. No need to worry—try different forms of activity that will stimulate and inspire your child, like playing tag, dancing, jumping rope, or playing soccer.
  • Teach healthy habitsWhen children learn about how to plan meals, shop for low-fat foods, and prepare nutritious dishes, they’ll be developing healthy habits that may last a lifetime. Involve kids in these activities and encourage them to participate in becoming more aware of their food choices.

10 Travel essentials must have in your bag

Get your hands on Yuvi Style’s exquisite Bagru print range

Tips to start a conversation

 

Join NewsTrack Whatsapp group
Related News