Obesity rates in children are on the rise owing to changing lifestyle and dietary patterns. DR SHRINIVAS TAMBE tells us how we can combat it
Obesity is a serious health concern across nations which is seeing a rapidly upward trend among children. Indians in particular are vulnerable to lifestyle or non-communicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease etc. which can only aggravate the health complications in presence of obesity.
A BMI between 18.5 to 25 describes a healthy weight range, the one between 25.0 to 30 is described as overweight and a BMI higher than 30 is termed as obesity.
Causes of obesity and overweight
The primary cause of obesity and overweight results from the imbalance between the consumption and utilisation of calories. In general, countries across the globe are witnessing an increased intake of foods high in fat and sugars coupled with an increase in physical inactivity owing to a sedentary lifestyle and increase in urbanisation. Environmental and societal changes often result in changes in dietary and physical activity patterns of population thereby leading to lifestyle changes which in turn may result in obesity and overweight among children and even adults.
Health problems
A raised BMI contributes as a major risk factor for various noncommunicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases mainly stroke and heart disease, musculoskeletal disorders especially osteoarthritis and some cancers like ovarian, liver, kidney etc.
Further, obese children have a higher likelihood of obesity and disability as adults and premature death. In addition, they even experience a higher risk of fractures, insulin resistance, breathing difficulties, hypertension, early markers of cardiovascular disease to name a few.
Social impact
Obesity and overweight have long lasting social implications on children and even adults. It affects their mind more than their body and can have major impact on their self esteem which in turn can affect other aspects of their lives, such as efficiency at school and friendship development. Moreover, it impacts how they feel about themselves and the way they interact with others. Going beyond the social impact, obese children or adolescents are at a higher risk of several diseases and disorders as adults irrespective of being obese in adulthood. Therefore, it becomes all the more important to identify and work on reversing the condition before children turn into adults.
Combating obesity
A BMI of 22 or less is the first step towards improving one’s health. It is recommended to eat a healthy and balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables, poultry, whole grains along with rotating use of plant oils such as mustard oil, til, groundnut. Besides, eating home food, staying hydrated with plain water and other beverages free of calories coupled with regular physical activity are key to staying away from obesity and lead a healthy life.
The writer is Consultant - Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Jupiter Hospital, Pune