It is not difficult to see that more and more people around us are overweight, including children. There are many factors that contribute to the increase in the number of overweight and obese children.
Genetics and lifestyle
Overweight in children is often associated with genetics. Overweight parents and families increase the risk of similar problems in their children. However, it is not just genes - we also often inherit unfortunately unhealthy eating habits. The simplest definition of excessive body weight is consuming more calories than our body needs.
A child's diet - the key to a healthy weight
Children's diets are increasingly processed. High-calorie products rich in fat and sugars dominate the market. Consumption of fast food, sweets, pizza, sweetened fizzy drinks is increasing, while milk and dairy products are losing popularity. In about 15% children, the diet contains more than 40% of fats. Vegetable and fruit intake is well below the recommended standard. Advertisements often promote unhealthy options, influencing the children's food choices.
Changes in calorie intake
The distribution of calorie intake throughout the day has also changed. Skipping breakfast and eating a lot of calories in the evening promotes fat accumulation and the development of a childhood obesity and adults.
Decrease in physical activity
Modern lifestyles limit children's physical activity. They spend more time in front of screens than playing outdoors, which consequently leads to weight gain and, in extreme cases, to addictions (cf. Is my child addicted to computer games?). It is also worth noting what attitude to physical activity Has the rest of the family. Are they a family of couch potatoes or are they physically active?
Let us remember that the family is the first and main role model for our children.
Environmental impact
The environment in which children grow up, it can affect their healthy eating habits i physical activity. The availability of cheap and unhealthy food options, lack of access to outdoor play areas and lack of safe cycle routes and footpaths can make it difficult to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Overweight in children - comprehensive solutions
Overweight and obesity in children is a complex issue that results from the interaction of many factors. The solution is a multi-faceted approach that includes:
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- education on healthy eating,
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- promoting physical activity,
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- improving the availability of healthy food options
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- emotional support for children and their families.
There is a need to educate about healthy eating, promote physical activity, improve the availability of healthy food options and provide emotional support for children and their families.
Role of Parents and Professionals
Parents always want the best for their child. However, they often get lost in a jumble of information. It is good that this confront knowledge with a specialist and establish an action plan. Sometimes small changes really are enough. As part of your support, we invite you to contact Kids Medic, where our specialists will help tailor therapeutic services perfectly suited to your family's needs with empathy and expertise.
We invite you to consultations
At Kids Medic, you can benefit from dietetic services by signing up for our dietitian Catherine Ring-Andrzejczuk.
