Understanding and Managing Childhood Obesity

Is your child struggling with childhood obesity? Let Dr. Shakti Matta and the team at Pediatrics For You of Kennewick, WA help you and your child move toward a healthier path.

Understanding and Managing Childhood Obesity

Obesity is something that affects people of all ages, genders, and walks of life. While it’s certainly not a new issue, it has become a much more prevalent one in five kids around the world. Around 20 percent of children in America are considered obese.

Unfortunately, obesity can affect children both now and in the future, so parents, pediatricians, and other caregivers must work together to address it. Below, Dr. Matta and the team at Pediatrics For You in Kennewick, WA share important information about childhood obesity as well as tips for managing it.

What Is Obesity?

A person is considered obese when their body fat exceeds a certain Body Mass Index. BMI accounts for things such as height and age. Therefore, in short, being obese means having more fat than one should for their height, age, and gender.

Effects of Obesity

One of the biggest visible impacts that obesity has on children is low self-esteem. Unfortunately, low self-esteem can lead to issues such as anxiety and depression.

Additionally, obesity can cause various health issues, including but not limited to:

• Spine issues
• Asthma
• Sleep apnea
• Type 2 diabetes
• Fatty liver disease
• High blood pressure
• Heart trouble

Unfortunately, these conditions can worsen as your child ages.

Managing Obesity in Children

Obesity is most often the result of a poor diet and a lack of physical activity. And unfortunately, these habits can follow children into adulthood. One of the most important things parents can do is encourage healthy habits. This can be difficult at first, but the following tips can help you make progressive changes.

• Require that your child go outside to play for a set amount of time before using a device.
• Limit screen time.
• Reduce sugary drinks, processed foods, and drive-thru meals to a set number of times per month.
• Hide any unhealthy snacks and drinks. Leave fruits and other healthy options on your counters and in front of your refrigerator.
• Talk to your child about getting involved in an activity, such as playing football, taking dance classes, or taking self-defense classes.

For more tips and help to manage childhood obesity, schedule an appointment with Dr. Matta and the team at Pediatrics For You in Kennewick, WA by calling (509) 572-2201.