If you're a parent, you want what's best for your child's physical and emotional health. Knowing the causes and risks of childhood obesity, and how to prevent it, is one way to keep your child in good health, both physically and emotionally.

Whether your child is at a healthy weight or already struggles with being overweight, it's never too early or too late to make healthy changes that will benefit your child in the future and protect them from the complications of obesity.



What Causes Childhood Obesity?

Childhood obesity can be caused by lifestyle factors or genetic and hormonal issues. However, most causes can be linked to lifestyle. Your pediatrician can order testing to rule out whether your child's obesity is influenced by genetics or caused by lifestyle factors.

You can't always determine if your child is overweight by appearance. Some children have larger body frames, and weight can fluctuate during various phases of childhood development. Your pediatrician may use the body mass index, growth charts, or other tests to see if your child's weight is above the healthy range.

What Are the Risk Factors for Childhood Obesity?

In addition to hormonal and genetic components, childhood obesity is influenced by several risk factors, including: 

• Sedentary lifestyle: Video games, social media, and TV watching often replace physical activity in children, which can lead to obesity. Children who are sedentary may not burn off enough calories to prevent them from gaining weight.
• Poor diet: If your child consumes a lot of sugary soft drinks or snack foods, they may be at risk. Even foods considered healthy can cause problems if eaten in excess. For instance, high consumption of fruit juices, granola bars, or popcorn can add up to a lot of calories.
• Psychological issues: If your child is stressed out due to emotional issues, it may lead to unhealthy eating patterns. Family problems, bullying at school, or loss can trigger eating disorders that often affect weight.

If you notice any of these risk factors in your child’s life, their pediatrician can help you find solutions that can mitigate damage and further risk.

What Are the Complications of Childhood Obesity?

The complications of childhood obesity can't be ignored. Type 2 diabetes, usually found only in adults, is increasing in children. Children who are overweight are also more likely to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and sleep apnea.

Bone and joint problems can develop in overweight children. Though not conclusive, some recent research suggests that overweight children may be at a higher risk of cancer, liver, or kidney disease. Developing these health problems early in childhood can set your child up for a life of poor health.

One of the most concerning complications of childhood obesity is how it can affect your child emotionally. Overweight children may be made fun of or bullied in some cases. A healthy self-image is developed in the formative years of childhood, and a negative self-image can be difficult to overcome later in life.

How Can Childhood Obesity Be Prevented?

Make healthy living a family affair by allowing your child to help choose healthy foods and recipes. Plan outdoor activities that will keep your child active. Set a good example for your child by keeping your own lifestyle healthy.

Be conscious of how you use food in the home. Don't force your child to clean their plate at meals, and keep healthy snacks prepared and easy for your child to access. Avoid the temptation to use food as a reward for good behavior and choose a non-food treat instead, such as having a friend over, going to a movie, or going to the park.

As a parent, you can take an active role in keeping your child at a weight that's best for their health. Be aware of the causes and risks of childhood obesity so that you can develop a healthy lifestyle plan that can benefit your child's emotional and physical health. Contact our caring staff at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics to discuss lifestyle changes to keep your child's weight at a healthy level.