Causes of obesity in children in the UK

Unfortunately obesity is a very real problem in the world today, especially in western society. This is because people are eating less healthy foods and exercise less. Obesity is not the same as being fat, obesity is when you are overweight to the point that it affects your health in a serious way.

Causes of Obesity

Obesity is basically caused by eating too much foods containing sugar and fat and also by not taking part in exercise. In some more unusual occasions, there are other causes such as genetic conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome and there may well be difficulties with controlling a child’s appetite. Most of the time children that are overweight will have overweight parents, it really is a life style choice. An incredibly high percent of children in the US are overweight.

Obesity Results

Obesity can cause a child to suffer with problems later on in their lives. They may experience problems with their joints and bones for an example they may get a slipped femoral epiphysis or have bow legs. Being obese can also cause a child to have headaches and suffer with affected vision, gall bladder disease, polycystic ovary syndrome and high blood pressure. By being obese there is a risk of getting diabetes as such children will have a resistance to insulin. As well as these, the obese child may also end up suffering with psychological problems resulting in low self-esteem and depression.

The Treatment of Obesity

If your child is overweight or even if you suspect they are on the verge of becoming overweight it is advisable to seek the attention of a doctor and/or a dietician and they will give you the safest and most effective ways to help your child lose the weight. It will consist of exercise and eating a balanced diet. Firstly start by increasing their intake of fruits and vegetables, there are many recipes that can disguise the flavours if you need to. Swap the unhealthy crisps and chocolate bars for healthier, fun snacks. You can visit with your head teacher of the school to see what preventative measures they are taking with their school dinners. If your child is going to be changing their life style then it is advisable that the whole family takes part so the child does not feel excluded and continues to have a low self esteem, make it fun and friendly.