This book explores the problem of childhood obesity, a growing concern worldwide. Chapter I provides an overview of the issue, defining obesity and outlining the various factors contributing to its prevalence in children, including diet, lifestyle, genetics, wealth, technology, and cultural norms. The psychological aspects of childhood obesity are also discussed.
Chapter II examines the health problems associated with childhood obesity, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, and social isolation. The long-term consequences of childhood obesity are also explored, highlighting the risks of continued obesity into adulthood.
Chapter III describes the various methods for measuring obesity in children, including body mass index (BMI), Z-score value, and percentile value. The limitations of using BMI are discussed, and alternative methods are proposed.
Chapter IV focuses on the management of childhood obesity, with an emphasis on healthy eating and physical activity. The chapter outlines strategies for parents and healthcare providers to help children balance calories and develop healthy eating habits, such as reducing high-calorie foods and avoiding fast food. The importance of reducing sedentary time and increasing physical activity is also discussed, with guidelines for aerobic, muscle, and bone-strengthening exercises. Other strategies for managing childhood obesity include reducing stress and improving healthcare team outcomes.
Overall, this book provides a comprehensive overview of childhood obesity, its causes, and its consequences, as well as practical advice for parents and healthcare providers on managing this growing problem.