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Pediatric obesity is a significant issue in the United States, with the CDC reporting that 1 in 5 children and adolescents are obese. Obesity can lead to a host of health problems for these youth and a higher healthcare cost burden for their parents. Many programs and initiatives seek to reduce pediatric obesity rates, but ultimately, it’s up to parents to take measures to prevent and treat obesity in their children.
Symptoms of Pediatric Obesity
Being in the higher weight percentiles for age does not necessarily mean that your child is obese. Physicians use body mass index (BMI) to diagnose obesity, which is based on weight, height, age, and sex. A BMI in the 95th percentile or higher indicates obesity. Other symptoms of obesity may include:
- Easily getting out of breath
- Joint pain
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the lower legs or feet
- Frequent headaches
- High blood pressure
Causes of Pediatric Obesity
Many factors can contribute to pediatric obesity.
Diet
Eating a lot of processed foods and foods high in fat, sugar, or salt can contribute to obesity. Children who eat an excess of fast food, candy, or other desserts, or who drink sugary drinks like soda or juice are at risk.
Lack of Activity
In today’s world, children spend a lot of time watching television, gaming, or on social media, rather than being active outside. This lack of activity can lead to weight gain. Children should be encouraged to spend at least an hour a day being physically active.
Mental Health
Stress and anxiety lead to excess cortisone in the body, which can cause increased hunger and cravings for sugary or fatty foods. Some children may also seek comfort in food if they are having issues at home or at school.
Medications
Some prescription medications can cause weight gain, particularly certain medications for mental health disorders. Check with your pediatrician to see if weight gain is a side effect of any medications that your child takes.
Genetics
If people in your family are prone to easy weight gain, your child may also be at risk due to genetic factors.
Hormones
Hormonal imbalances can alter your child’s metabolism and increase appetite. They can also affect how your child’s body stores fat.
Socioeconomics
Some lower income communities are what are referred to as food deserts. In these areas, grocery stores with fresh foods are absent, leading to more consumption of convenience foods that are processed and high in fat. These areas may also lack parks or other places that encourage physical activity.
Complications of Pediatric Obesity
Pediatric obesity can lead to many health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart issues later in life. It can also contribute to the development of asthma, sleep apnea, and even liver damage.
Mental health can also be affected. Children may suffer from a poor body image, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression.
Preventing Pediatric Obesity
You, as a parent, can take many steps to help your child avoid obesity.
- Studies have shown that babies who are breast fed for 6 months have a lower likelihood of developing obesity.
- Serve balanced meals. The best way to prevent your child from becoming obese is to serve healthy, balanced meals. This means that your whole family must eat well. You’ll be setting a good example and improving your own health at the same time. Balanced meals should include lean proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Keep healthy snacks on hand as well.
- Limit or eliminate junk food in the home. Keep snacks like chips, cookies, and candy to a minimum in your pantry, or don’t have them in the house at all. If you do have them in the house, keep them out of reach and only offer them to your child occasionally.
- Limit screen time. To keep your child from being sedentary, limit the time they can spend watching TV, playing games, and cruising social media. Encourage them to play outside or do some kind of physical activity.
- Take your child to the park. Plan regular outings with your child to the park where they can get some exercise playing on the jungle gym, shooting hoops, or playing catch.
- Don’t reward your child with food. It’s often tempting to reward your child with food. For example, giving them a cookie after they do their homework. Choose different rewards instead, such as playing a game with them, or taking them to a favorite place.
- Ensure sufficient sleep. Research shows that insufficient sleep is associated with a higher risk of pediatric obesity. Children under 12 need 9 to 12 hours of sleep per day, while teenagers need 8 to 10. They should also have a regular sleep schedule, so set a bedtime.
Treatment Strategies for Pediatric Obesity
If your child is obese, the first thing that you should do is visit the pediatrician. They will determine your child’s BMI, and may also do some tests to screen for type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and other potential conditions. They may also refer you to a nutritionist who can create a healthy meal plan for your child.
Helping your child lose weight involves most of the same strategies used to prevent obesity. Serve balanced meals, but also do portion control for your child, and encourage physical activity over screen time.
In some cases, your pediatrician may recommend medications for weight loss, such as Wegovy or Saxenda. In extreme cases, weight loss surgery may be an option.
The most important thing to remember, however, is to not be judgmental or critical of your child. Stay positive to keep their self-esteem from suffering. Be supportive and loving and give them a sense of control over their weight. Be patient and don’t push them too hard. It will take time for them to get to a healthy weight, but with your help, they can do it.
In Closing
Pediatric obesity is a significant problem in the United States, and the solution ultimately lies at home. As a parent, you can help to prevent your child from becoming obese, and if it’s already happened, you can help them get back to a healthy weight. The healthcare professionals at Health Service Alliance can evaluate your child and provide the care and guidance that both you and your child need. Reach out to us today. We are here to help your child be the best they can be.