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Overweight and obesity are terms used to describe children who have too much body fat or an abnormal amount of body fat. Obesity is a more serious type of overweight. Childhood obesity needs to be tackled at an early age, as an obese child is more likely to be obese in adulthood.
Many reasons have impacted on childhood obesity such as changes to food type, availability, affordability, marketing and a reduction in physical activity. It is also crucial to note that some children may be at an increased risk of childhood obesity due to genes that make them gain weight more easily. Also certain health problems or certain medications can unintentionally increase weight.
Childhood obesity can result in:
- Increased cholesterol
- Fatty liver
- Insulin resistance
- Impaired fasting glucose or diabetes
- Gallstones
- Depression and/or anxiety
- Low self-esteem and other social problems such as bullying
- Breathing problems such as asthma and sleep apnoea
- Reflux
- Joint problems and muscle pain
