Risks of Childhood Obesity
As you already know childhood obesity is a growing problem in this country and around the world. According to the Institute of Medicine over the past three decades the rate has more than doubled for preschool children aged 2-5 years and adolescents 12-19, and has more than tripled for children 6-11. As you can see the numbers are alarming. Here are some of the risks to your child if he or she is obese.
The Physical Risks
- Glucose intolerance and insulin resistance
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Dyslipidemia – A disorder of lipoprotein metabolism, including lipoprotein overproduction or deficiency. Dyslipidemias may be manifested by elevation of the total cholesterol, the “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and the triglyceride concentrations, and a decrease in the “good” high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentration in the blood.
- Hepatic steatosis- Fatty liver is the collection of excessive amounts of triglycerides and other fats inside liver cells.
- Cholelithiasis- The presence or formation of gallstones in the gallbladder or bile ducts.
- Sleep apnea
- Impaired balance
- Orthopedic problems
Excessive body weight is a real problem that cannot be taken lightly. As you can see these are serious health risks.
The Emotion Health Risks
- Low self-esteem
- Negative body image
- Depression
These risks are often over looked because they are not as apparent as the access weight. An open line of communication is needed to envision the feelings your child is experiencing. In this way you can help your child cope with their emotional distress.
Now that you know some of the risks of obesity in children you can take steps to elevate these risks in you own home.