It's well known that childhood obesity is a risk factor for chronic
diseases in adulthood. But what many parents might not realize until
problems arise is that overweight and obese kids and teens often have
weight-related problems during childhood.
Kids who are considered obese (with a body mass index, or BMI, at or above the 95th percentile) are at risk for:
- obstructive sleep apnea (blocked breathing during sleep)
- breathing problems (such as asthma and exercise intolerance)
- type 2 diabetes
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- bone and joint problems
- liver disease
- elevated cholesterol and triglycerides (which are risk factors for cardiovascular problems)
- menstrual irregularities
- anxiety, depression, low self-esteem
- bullying and discrimination
There's also thought to be a connection between obesity and early
puberty, especially in girls. Overweight kids tend to grow faster and
enter puberty earlier, and obesity might play a role in earlier onset of
breast development, usually the first sign that a girl is entering
puberty.
What This Means to You
The far-reaching health problems associated with obesity have dire
implications for kids right now. So it's vital that parents do all they
can to help kids reach and maintain a healthy weight. Being a good role
model is a key part of this — let your kids see you eating healthy foods
in appropriate serving sizes, enjoying treats in moderation, and
exercising regularly.
And you don't have to go it alone. The health care reform legislation
includes $15 billion earmarked for public health programs designed to
help prevent health problems and keep Americans healthy, including $16
million that will go toward combating obesity and promoting fitness.
Another provision requires "nutrient content disclosure statements" at
chain restaurants, which is significant since an estimated 84% of
parents take kids for fast food at least once a week. Look for calorie
counts and other nutritional breakdowns listed on in-store and
drive-through menus soon.
The long-term picture, of course, is still important. Kids who reach a
healthy weight not only have less risk for obesity-related problems, but
are more likely to avoid obesity later. Results of a recent study show
that obese teens are 16 times more likely to become severely obese in
adulthood compared with those who are normal weight or overweight.
Consider talking to your doctor or a nutritionist about ways to fight obesity as a family.
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