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Recent research has discovered evidence that some cases of childhood obesity are linked to genetic mutations, but the studies suggest that fewer than 2% of cases of obesity in children are caused by genetics. Childhood obesity is reaching epidemic proportions with 1 in 5 children in the US and 1 in 7 in the UK classed as obese.
Obesity is measured by calculating body mass index which is calculated by dividing your height in kilograms divided by the square of your height in metres. A result greater than 30 is considered obese although a high proportion of muscle, which is heavier than fat, can produce misleading results.
Obesity is linked to a number of problems, mental and physical, including:-
Most causes of childhood obesity are linked to lifestyle - nutrition and activity being the two main factors. Parents have a responsibility to look after their children and help their children avoid excessive weight gain. Simple steps that you can take include:-
Childhood obesity is something that you will want to avoid. There is no approved medication for obesity in children but so much can be done by adapting lifestyle. If your children are growing excessively overweight for no apparent reason, then do seek medical advice. There may be more serious underlying problems not linked to lifestyle, but remember that these cases are rare.
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