World Obesity Day
By Tara Liddle, PT, MA, DPT, PCS
In the last few decades, there has been a concerning trend regarding the prevalence of children being overweight or obese, with numbers steadily rising. In 1990, approximately 8% of children were identified as overweight or obese. In 2022, the number has surged to 20%, indicating a significant increase in the proportion of children grappling with weight-related issues. The root causes of childhood overweight and obesity are multifaceted, often intertwined with dietary habits and activity levels.
Diet plays a pivotal role in the health and well-being of children, and the modern diet, characterized by high fat, sugar, and salt content, contributes substantially to the rising rates of childhood obesity. Overweight toddlers, in particular, are susceptible to a myriad of challenges, including a higher incidence of motor and mental delays, impacting their social and verbal skills development. A child is considered obese if their weight surpasses the 95th percentile for their age and height, signifying a concerning deviation from the healthy weight range.
Navigating the dietary landscape for young children presents a unique set of challenges. Infants and toddlers require adequate fat and cholesterol for optimal growth and development, underscoring the importance of a balanced diet incorporating essential nutrients. While fat is necessary, the focus should shift towards polyunsaturated fats in dairy products rich in vitamin D, calcium, and iron, promoting healthy growth without compromising overall well-being. Conversely, excessive juice and sweetened beverages should be avoided, given their association with weight gain and poor dietary choices.
In combating childhood obesity, parental influence is crucial to children's dietary habits and activity levels. Parents are primary role models, shaping their children's attitudes towards food and physical activity through their behaviors and choices. Parents can instill lifelong habits that promote optimal health and well-being in their children by adopting healthy eating habits and integrating physical activity into daily routines.
Recognizing the urgency of addressing childhood obesity, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued recommendations to promote healthy activity levels among children. These guidelines advocate for regular physical activity tailored to children's age and developmental stage, emphasizing the importance of incorporating structured and unstructured play into daily routines. By prioritizing physical activity, children can maintain healthy weight levels and foster positive habits that support overall health and well-being. The CDC recommends 60 minutes or more of physical activity daily. For aerobic activity, most of the 60 minutes, or more, should be at a moderate or vigorous intensity. Vigorous activity levels should be conducted at least three days per week. Part of the 60 minutes of the daily activity should include muscle and bone strengthening at least three times per week. Activities may include: swimming, biking, dancing, climbing, animal walks, wheelbarrow walks, tug of war, jump rope, hiking, running, sports (soccer, basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, racket sports)
The rise in child obesity rates represents a significant public health concern with far-reaching implications for the well-being of future generations. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach encompassing dietary modifications, increased physical activity, and parental involvement. By prioritizing healthy lifestyle choices and instilling positive habits early, we can empower children to lead fulfilling lives characterized by optimal health and well-being.
The topic of obesity or being overweight is a sensitive one. Care to avoid body shaming is extremely important. To avoid body shaming it is essential to promote positive attitudes toward health and wellness. Focus on health, not appearance, us positive language and encourage healthy habits, leading by example. Remain supportive and compassionate. Consult with you pediatrician, PCP, or nutritionist. Lifelong healthy habits will contribute to one’s overall happiness and wellness.
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention
Cataldo, R., Huang, J., Calixte, R., Wong, A. T., Bianchi‐Hayes, J., & Pati, S. (2016). Effects of overweight and obesity on motor and mental development in infants and toddlers. Pediatric obesity, 11(5), 389-396.
Allen, R. E., & Myers, A. L. (2006). Nutrition in toddlers. American family physician, 74(9), 1527-1532.