Childhood obesity affects not only the child but the community as a whole. Since 1990, it has been a growing problem in the United States, and it affected over 1.4 million children from 2017 to 2020. From type 2 diabetes to depression, it can have a severe impact on children that they can carry into adulthood. Due to these adverse consequences, prevention and treatment must be prioritized to ensure children have a promising future.

Fortunately, there are ways to combat this disease before it can affect your child’s future. This article discusses the causes, prevention tips and treatments for childhood obesity.

What is considered obese in pediatrics?

Childhood obesity is often measured and defined using BMI or body mass index. Those above the 95th percentile for age and sex may be considered obese. Let’s dive deeper into how BMI can help assess your child’s wellness.

Understanding BMI

You may have listened to your doctor discuss BMI when analyzing your child’s health. It’s one way to determine if their weight is a normal range for their height. But, like any tool, its limitations may change the health evaluation results.

BMI is a calculation that factors in height and weight but does not consider body fat percentage or muscle mass. To get the whole picture, it is crucial to speak with a pediatrician if you are concerned about your child’s weight.

Different populations and ethnicities can have varying BMI norms. So, it’s also important to consult growth charts and guidelines specific to your child’s region. A knowledgeable healthcare provider can give accurate diagnoses and assessments to cater to your child’s unique situation.

Decoding BMI percentiles

To further understand your child’s BMI, it is crucial to look at the percentiles.

• Underweight: This applies when a child’s BMI is below the 5th percentile. Even though this issue is important, remember that weight gain must occur in a balanced way. So do not force feed your child or put them on a fad diet that can negatively affect their eating habits. 
• Average weight: A standard weight falls between the 5th and 85th percentile. But remember that healthy habits are more than just numbers on a scale, so pay attention to your child’s overall health and activity.
• Overweight: If the BMI percentile is between 85th and 95th, it may mean that your child is overweight. This is a crucial stage to introduce lifestyle changes for improved well-being.
• Obese: A BMI percentile equal to or greater than the 95th percentile indicates obesity. This is where immediate action is needed to get your family on the right track.

These are the general guidelines for BMI in children. But it’s also important to understand that everyone is unique with different needs, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider instead of diagnosing it yourself.

Causes of pediatric obesity

Even though the causes of obesity may seem obvious, many underlying issues could cause this disease to occur.

Unhealthy diet

If you are what you eat, then what your child consumes can have a significant impact on their body. A diet high in processed foods like sugary treats and fast food can contribute to excess weight gain. Finding healthy and delicious food substitutes like whole foods can help make the transition to a healthier lifestyle much more manageable.

Lack of physical activity

With the popularity of smartphones and streaming services, children have quickly become fixated on screens and often neglect physical activity. These unhealthy habits can lead to back pain, weight gain, and even type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Encouraging your kids to get some physical activity can help combat this issue and burn the calories gained from this sedentary lifestyle.

Genetics and family history

If obesity runs in your family, it does not necessarily mean you are predisposed to some hereditary traits for this condition. There is currently no single gene that has been found to significantly affect your chances of inheriting obesity — rather, obesity is a result of complex interactions between multiple genes and your environment. This means your lifestyle plays a crucial role and should be encouraging to families who have experienced this disease and feel out of control. Now, they can make healthier decisions and take charge of their futures.

Environmental factors

Although a child’s diet at home does play an important role in their well-being, we can’t ignore the outside influences, like schools and friends. School lunches and after-school snacks are often unhealthy choices. Processed food like chips, cookies and sodas is readily available, and it can be challenging to avoid when dining out or on the go. To change these harmful behaviors, prepare your food at home and portion the meals to prevent overeating.

Psychological factors

Emotions can be powerful drivers of eating habits. Children might turn to food for comfort, boredom or stress relief. Addressing their emotional well-being is crucial, as it can prevent the development of damaging relationships with food they will take into adulthood.

Socioeconomic factors

Healthy foods sometimes come with a higher price tag, and not all families have the same resources. Due to limited funds, some families may develop a reliance on less nutritious and cheaper food alternatives. Different options, such as planning recipes, growing a garden and buying in bulk, can help families handle this delicate situation.

Parental influence

Children often mimic their parents’ connection with food and exercise. But, setting a good example can be difficult if you also have a complicated relationship with food. If you are in this situation, do not be afraid to seek help and recognize your triggers before they become a lasting issue your children could inherit.

Preventing childhood obesity

Tackling childhood obesity is not easy and can be an overwhelming experience for parents and caregivers. Here are a few ways to deal with this growing issue:

Encourage a healthy diet

One of the first steps to combat obesity is to incorporate wholesome foods into your family’s diet that can change their palate and create better eating habits.

• Fruits, veggies and whole grains: Load up your grocery cart with fruits and veggies. Aim to fill half of your child’s plate with colorful produce. And when it comes to grains, opt for whole versions such as whole wheat bread, brown rice and oats. 
• Lean proteins: Think chicken, turkey, fish, beans and legumes. These protein sources are excellent for muscle growth and repair. Keep portions in check, and mix them up to add variety to your meals.
• Avoid sugary drinks: Swap out those sugary sodas and juices for the ultimate thirst quencher — water. It’s calorie-free and does wonders for overall health. Try flavoring water with lemon or cucumber.
• Taming processed and fast foods: Let’s face it, the occasional burger or slice of pizza won’t lead to obesity. However, frequent visits to fast-food restaurants and overindulging in processed snacks can pile on the calories. Keep these treats as treats rather than regular staples.
• Getting kids involved: Get your kids involved in the kitchen. They’re more likely to be curious about what’s on their plate when they’re part of the meal prep process.

Giving your children choices and allowing them to have more control over their meals and activities will enable them to feel a part of the journey rather than just a helpless participant.

Promote regular physical activity

The perfect companion to a healthy diet is regular physical activity. This doesn’t mean signing your kids up for marathon training but rather encouraging them to move their bodies and have fun. Take a look at some of these ideas to get them up and moving:

• Set a time limit: Aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. It doesn’t have to be all at once; you can break it into chunks throughout the day.
• Encourage playtime: Inspire your little ones to enjoy active play like tag, hide-and-seek and kickball. If you have a yard, turn it into a play haven. If not, parks are a fantastic option.
• Screen-time limits: While screens are a part of modern life, they can easily waste hours. Set limits on screen time, whether it’s TV or iPads.
• Team spirit: Organized sports teach teamwork, discipline and the importance of staying active. If not, consider signing them up for dance classes, martial arts or even yoga — anything that gets them moving and having a blast.

For the older kids, consider involving them in developing their own activity plan. Give them a list of options, let them decide what they like best and then set a goal. This can help them take ownership of their health and build healthy habits for life.

Foster a supportive environment

A supportive environment can create a positive experience for the entire family, so try these strategies:

• Smart snacking: Keep the fruit bowl stocked and prepare healthy snacks when they get hungry. When chips and cookies aren’t readily available, kids are more likely to grab the better options.
• Mealtime schedules: Establish regular meal times and sit down together whenever possible. Family meals are a fantastic opportunity to connect, chat and model healthy eating habits.
• Be the role model: Kids learn by example. They’re more likely to follow suit if they see you munching on apples and going for walks. So make sure you practice what you preach.
• School involvement: Encourage schools to provide nutritious meals and promote physical activity. This is a collective effort, and schools must be able to support healthy habits when your children are in their care.

With the proper support, you can foster a loving environment that will encourage healthy habits.

Education and awareness

Health awareness should not just be emphasized at home but should also be practiced in the school setting.

• Discuss the issues: Educate your kids about why eating well and staying active are essential. Avoid the scare tactics, but be honest about the risks of obesity.
• Nutrition education: Advocate for nutrition education in schools. When kids are taught instead of told about balanced diets and the benefits of exercise, they’re more likely to make better choices.
• Community involvement: Participate in community campaigns and events that promote healthy living. When it’s a collective effort, positive changes become easier to achieve.

Knowledge is power, and when kids and parents understand the why behind healthy choices, it’s easier to make the right choices.

Involve healthcare professionals

Your child’s healthcare team isn’t just there for annual check-ups and immunizations. They’re valuable partners in preventing childhood obesity.

• Routine check-ups: Regular visits to the doctor are crucial. They can help monitor your child’s growth and weight status to determine whether intervention is needed. 
• Get guidance: Your family physicians and primary care doctors have a wealth of knowledge you can use to learn how to properly implement a positive lifestyle.

You can also schedule a weight management consultation with a qualified practitioner who can guide you in the right direction.

Advocate for policy changes

If you want to create a change in your community, here are some ways to get involved:

• Healthy food access: Try to support policies that ensure everyone has access to affordable, nutritious foods. It’s not just about what’s on your plate but what’s available in your neighborhood.
• Marketing matters: Advocate for regulations that limit the marketing of unhealthy foods to children. When kids aren’t bombarded with tempting ads, it’s easier for families to make the best choices.
• Health education in schools: To create a lasting impact, parents must advocate for physical and health education in schools.

Policy changes can make a huge difference and can be the stepping stone to further advancements.

Consequences of obesity in children

There are many dangers associated with obesity. To fully understand the repercussions of this disease, you must be aware of the following issues:

Physical health issues

Many potential problems can emerge due to childhood obesity. These include:

• Type 2 diabetes: Childhood obesity can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. It’s a serious condition that can affect your blood sugar levels and may lead to health problems like heart disease and vision loss.
• Heart disease: Obesity is linked to high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Both are risk factors for heart issues down the line.
• Respiratory problems: Extra weight on the body can create a strain on the respiratory system and result in sleep apnea and asthma, making breathing a struggle.
• Joint problems: Carrying excess weight puts stress on joints, potentially causing discomfort and limiting mobility. Consulting a physiatrist for therapy might be beneficial if your child experiences pain or has difficulty moving.
• Fatty liver disease: Obesity can lead to a fatty liver, which can have lasting effects like liver failure.

These physical issues can easily be avoided with proper diet and regular exercise.

Psychological and social effects

Aside from physical and lifestyle choices, there are also psychological and social effects that can impact your children’s welfare.

• Low self-esteem: Children with obesity will likely experience lower self-esteem due to body image issues. Society’s views on appearances can also heighten this and will take a toll on their self-worth.
• Depression and anxiety: Obese children may also experience depression and anxiety, affecting their overall health. A psychiatrist can help manage these feelings and provide effective treatments.
• Social isolation and bullying: Kids who are overweight are unfortunately at a higher risk of being bullied. Due to this, they will often choose to self-isolate and experience further emotional distress.

Seeing a therapist or counselor can also help with any emotional issues your child may be dealing with.

Long-term health impact

While many kids naturally outgrow their extra weight, the effects can linger and predispose them to certain medical conditions in adulthood.

• Continued obesity: Childhood obesity often continues into adulthood if not addressed and sets the stage for chronic diseases.
• Chronic diseases: Obesity can increase the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain types of cancer later in life.
• Reduced life expectancy: Perhaps the most sobering consequence is the potential reduction in a person’s life expectancy. This is due to the chronic diseases that obesity can cause and ongoing unhealthy lifestyle choices.

Learning the life-changing impacts can be a scary experience, but it may be a wake-up call to those needing to change their damaging lifestyles immediately.

Treating childhood obesity

When it comes to treating childhood obesity, much of the strategy mirrors prevention. Parents must foster a supportive environment while promoting a healthy diet and regular exercise. However, extra steps may be needed when your child is diagnosed with the disease.

Behavior modification

Behavior modification is an approach that can help change harmful behavior patterns and help your child maintain a healthy weight.

• Identifying unhealthy patterns: Behavior modification is a cornerstone of treating childhood obesity. Families must help each other identify bad eating habits and any triggers that can result in unhealthy behaviors. It may also be helpful to seek guidance from an endocrinologist specializing in hormone-related issues. 
• Coping mechanisms: Instead of relying on food for comfort, kids should be taught positive ways to cope with stress and emotional issues. This can include techniques like deep breathing, exercise or engaging in creative activities. 
• Mindful eating: It’s essential to teach your children strategies for portion control and recognizing hunger and fullness cues. Consulting with a nutritionist and dietitian can help you develop better meal plans and a healthier mindset.

Practicing behavior modifications is challenging and takes a lot of patience on both sides. But with consistency, it can provide you with the best results.

Family involvement

A healthy lifestyle is much more achievable when the entire household is involved. Here are some ways to encourage participation:

• Positive food environment: Encouraging family meals and cultivating a supportive atmosphere at home helps create a better relationship with food. Start with positive reinforcements and open communication when introducing whole food diets.
• Fostering self-esteem: To prevent your child from getting overwhelmed, try setting achievable goals and creating a space that promotes self-esteem and positive body image.

Treating childhood obesity is a long process that requires dedication and commitment, so be patient and do not expect perfection.

Is weight loss surgery available for children?

Weight loss surgery can be a good option for adults and children who are eligible for the procedure. Although bariatric surgery has shown to be an effective treatment, it should be used cautiously to avoid irreversible health risks.

What factors impact eligibility?

If you’re considering weight loss surgery for your child, they must meet a few eligibility criteria:

• Age and pubertal development: Weight loss surgery is typically considered for adolescents who have completed most of their growth spurt. Age and pubertal development are critical factors. 
• Body mass index (BMI): A BMI of 35 or higher is a factor in determining eligibility. Children with severe obesity or certain medical conditions might be candidates for surgery.
• Comorbidities: Obesity-related health issues, like diabetes or sleep apnea, can influence your eligibility.
• Failed non-surgical interventions: When other interventions haven’t led to meaningful results, surgery might be considered.
• Psychosocial factors: Psychological evaluation is essential to assess a child’s readiness for surgery and ability to comply with post-operative care.
• Thorough evaluation: Deciding whether to proceed with bariatric surgery can be a difficult process. It is best to have a weight loss consultation with a licensed healthcare professional to ensure the best possible outcome for your child. If they are approved for the procedure, a weight loss follow-up plan should also be discussed with your physician.

Whether it’s behavior modification, the involvement of healthcare professionals or you’re considering weight loss surgery, every step you take is a step towards a healthier future for your child.

Additional childhood obesity resources

Due to the complexity of this issue, additional information is often needed. Here are some reliable sources to help you determine the best course of action.

1. Parent Teacher Association: This association shares healthy habits that encourage healthy eating and regular physical activity.  
2. The Obesity Society: This organization provides resources for anyone who has been affected by obesity, and provides them with science-based information to help combat this disease. 
3. MyPlate: The USDA created this user-friendly site and includes initiatives that share practical tips and resources to help parents make healthy, affordable meal plans for their children.
4. Let’s Move: Former First Lady Michelle Obama leads this fun campaign and offers engaging activities to help educate children and families on how to beat childhood obesity. 
5. Obesity Action Coalition (OAC): Since 2005, this non-profit organization has provided support and education to help combat childhood obesity.

Visit these sources to receive the most reliable information on childhood obesity.

Need a doctor? Find one on Zocdoc.