The Realities Of Childhood Obesity: Causes And Prevention By Lou Hampers

Obesity in children is currently one of the most severe public health concerns. It is difficult to diagnose and can contribute to a variety of other issues, including asthma, hypertension, depression, and low self-esteem. In this article, we will examine some of the realities of childhood obesity, including its causes and how parents can help their children remain healthy by averting the onset of obesity.

It Can Be Difficult To Diagnose Childhood Obesity

As with adults, it can be difficult to diagnose childhood obesity. Some of the same factors that make it hard for adults to determine if they are overweight or obese also apply to children.

Most Obese Kids Don’t Know They’re Overweight Until They’re Teens

Most obese children don’t realize they are overweight until they are teenagers. This is because many of the factors that contribute to childhood obesity are hidden from view, including:

• Body image—children can’t see their bodies and may have lower self-esteem than their peers.
• Lack of awareness—many obese toddlers don’t know what a healthy weight is or how much exercise they need each day.

Obese Children Are Often Teased About Their Weight By Other Kids

Children may taunt obese or overweight children. This hurtful interaction can lower their self-esteem and make them feel alienated. Discuss this issue with your overweight or obese child and let them know that many other children have experienced similar situations. Dr. Lou Hampers suggests finding activities where your child can meet other children with comparable interests.

Children With Obesity Have Lower Self-Esteem

Children who are obese are more likely to be bullied, less popular, and less accepted by their peers. The reason for this is that obese children have lower self-esteem than non-obese children. This can lead to depression and other mental health problems in adulthood. Obesity also affects physical health in childhood–it shortens lifespan and increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer later on in life.

Overweight Kids Have Other Health Issues

Lou Hampers Childhood obesity can cause health problems. Overweight children are more likely to acquire high blood pressure and asthma, which can cause problems later in life. Heart disease, stroke, and diabetes rise with obesity. Obesity raises cancer and gallbladder risk. These diseases can kill children if untreated, so parents must act swiftly.