Childhood Obesity In Children

As the world’s population grows in size each year, so do the people in it. Generations keep getting younger, and the children continue to get heavier. Childhood obesity is a problem that continues to grow in our nation. Kids have many factors that encourage unhealthy living. A poor diet, the lack of physical activity, an unhealthy environment that gives access to junk food 24/7, weight problems within families, and the lack of sleep are all causes of this nation-wide issue.

Neil K. Kaneshiro-an MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Washington School of Medicine, and the author of the article “Obesity in Children”- uses his own words to describe obesity. “Obesity means having too much body fat. It is not the

Ruth Loos, an outside source to this specific study and professor of Preventative Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine in New York, puts her thoughts into the talk of early obesity in children. “The main message is that obesity is established very early in life, and that it basically tracks through adolescence to adulthood.” When children’s families have weight problems, the children tend to develop or be born with these problems as well. This especially occurs and worsens if unhealthy life is encouraged more than a healthy lifestyle. Families, friends, and even a school setting determine how the child will respond to a life that is good for them. Genetics, medical conditions, and emotional disorders can also increase obesity risks, as well as hormone disorders or low thyroid function. Certain medications can also play a part in this serious

This means that lunches for children will be packed without nutrition in mind. These lunches often contain soda, candy, and possibly leftover fast food from the hectic night before. If this is a common occurrence, it can lead to overeating problems and major weight issues in the future. The lack of physical activity is common in this day and age. With computers, TV, and video games; going outside is no longer becoming the desired option. Kids will build up calories and fat, with no ways of burning it off. Commercials advertising greasy and sugary snacks can also cause kids to crave the unhealthy items. Another big reason more children are obese is the continuous lack of sleep each night. According to the Archives of Disease Control, kids that get less than 13 hours of sleep each and every night at the age of two are more likely to be obese at age seven. Too much sugar consumed before bedtime and having too many distractions at night can cause this lack of sleep. The increase in obesity of adolescents concerns many individuals, especially Michelle Obama. She is a strong advocate in the fight against obesity. “Childhood obesity is at an all- time high”, according to Mrs. Obama