Understanding the Risks and Prevention of Childhood Obesity.

One common misconception about childhood obesity is the belief that "more fat leads to more growth in height" during early years. However, the relationship between body fat and height is not as straightforward. In fact, excessive weight and childhood obesity can have negative impacts on growth. This phenomenon is influenced by hormones secreted from fat cells affecting the growth plates in children.

 

Childhood obesity can lead to not only cosmetic concerns but also health issues.

 

Negative Impact of Childhood Obesity on Height Growth

Excessive fat in childhood can trigger early closure of growth plates. Growth plates are sections used to lengthen bones, where bones grow. However, a hormone called 'leptin,' released from fat cells, stimulates the secretion of growth hormone. Growth hormone activates growth plates, lengthening bones to increase height. Unfortunately, in cases of excessive body fat, early closure of growth plates can occur due to the excessive secretion of leptin.

 

Various Causes and Prevention Methods for Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is a complex issue resulting from various factors such as excessive consumption of high-calorie foods, lack of physical activity, dietary errors, and psychological factors. Recently, a trend of increased childhood obesity has been observed due to a decrease in physical activity compared to the consumption of high-calorie foods. Sedentary activities like TV watching, video games, and internet usage play a significant role. Excessive parental protection or indifference can also contribute to childhood obesity.

 

Promoting Healthy Eating Habits for Childhood Obesity Prevention

Teaching children proper eating habits is a crucial aspect of preventing childhood obesity. Encouraging regular breakfast, maintaining meal times for at least 20 minutes to promote slow eating, and ensuring a balanced diet with carbohydrates (55-60%), protein (7-20%), and fat (15-30%) are essential. Regular meal times and avoiding overeating are vital in preventing childhood obesity.

 

Encouraging Consistent Exercise for Healthy Growth

Consistent exercise is essential for healthy growth. A minimum of 3-5 sessions of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise for 60 minutes per day is recommended. This includes activities like walking, jogging, climbing stairs, cycling, skipping, swimming, skating, and more. Aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular function, lowers blood pressure, releases mental tension and anxiety, reduces feelings of depression, and boosts confidence. If formal exercise is challenging, engaging in active play with friends can still help prevent and treat obesity.

 

Childhood obesity can lead to not only cosmetic concerns but also health issues. Therefore, accurate information and proper actions for prevention and treatment are crucial. Teaching children healthy eating habits and consistent exercise is an investment in their future.