One of the most prevalent conditions affecting children in the United States today is Childhood Obesity. Obesity is defined as a weight higher than that normal for the child’s height and age. This condition has long term ramifications for children who experience it, setting them on the path to concerns once thought purely in the realm of adult health. These include high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure, just to name a few. Children of obese parents are themselves, more likely to grow up fighting obesity. Here at Physicians Premiere Weight & Wellness Center, we pride ourselves on helping parents and children break the cycle and overcome the challenges associated with childhood obesity.
What Causes Childhood Obesity?
Childhood obesity is the result of multiple factors, some of which are lifestyle choices, while others are related to hormonal and genetic factors. The factors that can influence your child’s risk of childhood obesity include the following:
- Insufficient Activity – Children who don’t spend enough time being physically active tend to carry extra pounds due to not burning as many calories during the day. Video games, watching television, and other stationary activities can be contributing factors.
- Diet – Calorie dense foods and snacks can have a direct effect on your child’s weight. Drinks high in sugar, even fruit juices, can cause obesity to occur in many children.
- Socioeconomic Concerns – Children in some communities may experience limited access to supermarkets or resources. This can result in limited food choices that lean heavily on crackers, cookies, and frozen meals. Safe places to exercise may also be in short supply, depending on the neighborhood.
- Psychological Factors – Emotional eating is a difficult to overcome childhood habits that can lead to lifelong problems with eating disorders. Children raised with parents who face similar concerns are more prone to develop these issues themselves.
Complications Associated With Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity has broad-reaching implications for those who experience it. It has been shown to be a source of physical complications, including increased risks of bone fractures, asthma, type 2 diabetes, sleep disorders, even asthma. While these health risks are serious enough on their own, there are also socioeconomic concerns. Children who grow up obese can experience problems with learning and behavior due to anxiety and impaired social skills that lead to acting out. Bullying and resulting in low self-esteem can also lead to depression. These concerns can lay the foundation for ongoing mental health problems into adulthood.
Here at the Physicians Premiere Weight & Wellness Center, we help patients and their children tackle concerns with obesity and weight management. If you are concerned your child may be struggling with childhood obesity, give us a call at 703-783-5673 today to schedule an appointment. During your visit to our office at 21035 Sycolin Rd, Suite 180 in Ashburn, VA, you and your child will meet with Dr. Patel and her team and discuss a way forward to a healthy life.