It not easy for even kids when they face adverse health effects due to obesity and lack of self confidence. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, suggested that obesity and emotional problems were likely to develop hand-in-hand in childhood, from the age of seven. However, the link wasn’t apparent in younger children, said the study.
“People think it’s as simple as eating less and exercising more - but it's much more complex than that. Obesity and emotional problems are intertwined,” said Dr Charlotte Hardman, senior psychology lecturer at the University of Liverpool.
Obesity during childhood can result in serious physiological and psychological difficulties, including –
High blood pressure and cholesterol, which are major risk factors for cardiovascular disease
Increased risk of impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
Asthma, sleep apnea, and breathing problems
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Bone fractures
Psychological problems such as anxiety, depression
Low self-esteem
Social problems like bullying and stigma
Behavior and learning problems
Additionally, obese kids are more likely to stay obese into adulthood.
There are various health and wellness clinics who are providing preventive healthcare and obesity treatments. The goal of obesity treatment is to reach and stay at a healthy weight. Child may need to work with a team of health professionals — including a dietitian, behavior counselor or an obesity specialist — to help them understand and make changes in their eating and activity habits.
The initial treatment goal is usually a modest weight loss — 3 to 5 percent of total weight. That means that if a child weigh 91 kg and obese by BMI standards, would need to lose only about 2.7 to 4.5 kg for health to begin to improve. However, the more weight a child loses, the greater the benefits.
All weight-loss programs require changes in eating habits and increased physical activity. The treatment methods that are right for a child depend on the level of obesity, overall health and willingness to participate in a weight-loss plan.
Other treatment tools include:
Dietary changes
Exercise and activity
Behavior change
Prescription weight-loss medications
Weight-loss surgery
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a professional healthcare provider if you have any specific questions about any medical matter.