What Are the Signs of Obesity in Children?

Childhood obesity has become one of the most common global health problems. Among the biggest reasons for this rise are poor nutrition, low physical activity and changes in social norms that come with changing habits. The decline in children's outdoor street play is another social factor. A changing food culture, the impact of industrial developments on organic foods and unhealthy eating habits can also be counted among the contributing factors.

The effects of obesity can begin to appear in babies and young children as well. Being overweight can bring long-term health problems and may also trigger mental health problems in childhood and adolescence. Early diagnosis of obesity is very important. At İzmir Can Hastanesi, we care about your children's health and want to share with you the points to watch for. If you notice signs of obesity in your child, we recommend that you visit our Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic.

What Are the Causes of Obesity in Childhood?

Obesity in childhood can significantly affect growth. Because of their body mass, obese children may be taller than other children during their growth years, but once they complete puberty they may face problems that negatively affect their physical development into adulthood. Symptoms caused by excess weight can have a negative impact on developmental stages. Recognizing obesity in childhood is important to prevent such effects. Family and friends may think that a child eating extra is not a problem and may even be beneficial. Thinking that obese children will shed the extra weight as they grow taller and develop physically, they may create conditions that make obesity even worse.

What Are the Signs of Obesity in Children?

Obesity in childhood can show itself with many different signs. Having to wear clothes in different sizes than peers, children's sizes no longer fitting and not enjoying physical activities can all be signs of obesity. Obese children may have difficulty breathing while at rest and may experience sleep problems. As a result, fatigue may become a problem in their lives, and early signs of puberty may also be seen along with advanced physical development.

Obese children may have difficulty breathing while at rest and may experience sleep problems.

Childhood obesity affects not only physical health but also mental health and behavior. Obese children may feel bad around their peers and have difficulty making friends. Loneliness and the feeling of being physically unattractive can lower their self-esteem. For this reason, at Can Hastanesi we recommend that you look after your child's emotional health as well as their physical health during obesity treatment.

Treatment of Childhood Obesity

For the treatment of childhood obesity, it is very important that the dietitian and the child work together in harmony on the plan. Since the main goal is to help obese children maintain a healthy weight for life, it is important to plan properly for healthy eating, regular physical activity, a nutrient-rich diet for growth and correct portion sizes, and to aim for the child to be able to adapt to these changes.

Expert support is important for preventing childhood obesity and managing the process. The causes of obesity are identified through evaluations by pediatricians, endocrinologists and dietitians, and a treatment plan is made after diagnosis. These plans include eating habits and lifestyle habits, and in some cases medication or surgery may also be chosen. Regular follow-up of the treatment process is important.

At İzmir Can Hastanesi, we emphasize the importance of intervening early and helping in a variety of ways for your children's health. By working together with families, we support a healthy lifestyle, which helps the child succeed in the long term.