The Health Risks of Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is a topic in the health industry that deserves more attention and concern. As a serious health condition, childhood obesity has often been overlooked and has not gotten the attention it deserves. Childhood obesity affects both children and adolescents, which is cause for concern, often putting children on the wrong track for a long and healthy life. The concern is not just in the unhealthy lifestyle. However, obesity leads to the early development of other diseases and health issues in a child’s life. The onset of early health issues is not all; this condition may also cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. Childhood obesity comes with many health risks. That’s why at CEC Health Center, we have you covered! With the best family medicine doctor in freeport that accepts medicare, we promise to answer all your questions and provide you with the care and support you need.

Causes and Risk Factors

Usually, obesity is caused by lifestyle issues that lead to gaining weight. This may be due to a lack of activity, unhealthy eating, or a mix of both. However, genetics and hormonal factors also seem to play a role in the early development of obesity. There are many possibilities as to why your child is experiencing an early onset of obesity. That’s why our team has put together a list of possible risk factors. These factors may not point to the exact reason, or there may be a combination of these factors. That’s why we’re here to help. Contact us today for more information and the highest quality family medicine doctor in freeport that accepts medicare! Nevertheless, here is a list of possible risk factors that may lead to childhood obesity:

• Poor Diet – A poor diet is typically the root cause of childhood obesity. Consuming high-calorie foods, such as fast food, unhealthy snacks, or excessive amounts of food, can lead to childhood obesity. 
• Low Levels of Physical Activity – Physical activity is essential in a child or adolescent’s life. Lack of physical activity may lead to a higher risk of health issues, while routine physical activity reduces the risk of health issues later. Paired with a poor diet, lack of physical activity becomes the main risk factor for childhood obesity.
• Socioeconomic Factors – Convenience and socioeconomic factors also tend to play a role in the development of childhood obesity. Certain conditions may lead to a family not being able to afford healthy options for food. In addition, certain families may need access to healthy supermarkets, or it may be more convenient for them to get food quickly at a fast food place. 
• Genetic Factors – Family history may play a role in a child experiencing the early onset of obesity. Usually, if your child comes from a family of overweight people, they tend to put on weight easier and faster. Especially when paired with an environment that includes high-calorie foods and an unhealthy diet.
• Psychological Factors – This may include depression, anxiety, or high-stress levels. All may lead to a child using food to cope with their emotions.
• Medications – Medication, including prescription drugs, can increase the risk of obesity. Certain medications are shown to increase weight gain or may lead to tiredness or an unwillingness to participate in physical activity.

Prevention of Childhood Obesity

It is essential to ensure your children stay active and eat healthily and set an example. Children learn all they know from their parents and setting a good example and living a healthy lifestyle yourself proves invaluable. One way to start can include having a full kitchen of healthy snacking options, healthy drinks, and cooking healthy meals for you and your family. Another way is to create active hobbies for your children. This may include playing a sport, going on family walks or runs, or anything else that may encourage physical fitness. Lastly, ensure your child is getting enough sleep. Sleep is often overlooked when it comes to an unhealthy lifestyle, however, this is often a gateway towards unhealthy living. If you want to learn more about how to help your child, contact CEC Health Center, a family medicine doctor in freeport that accepts medicare!

Contact CEC Health Center for a Family Medicine Doctor in Freeport that Accepts Medicare

Childhood obesity should not be overlooked and comes along with many health risks. It’s necessary to do all possible to treat or reduce the risk of childhood obesity in your children. The health risks associated with childhood obesity are a cause for concern. If not handled correctly and as early as possible, your child may live an unhealthy lifestyle with many health concerns. Take action against childhood obesity by contacting us at CEC Health Center We promise the best family medicine doctor in freeport that accepts medicare, and we’ll ensure your child lives a healthy and happy life!