Children who are overweight or obese carry extra body fat, which can cause problems for their health, both emotionally and physically. Health problems such as type 2 diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure and gallstones would usually be seen in adults, especially if they are overweight, but obese and overweight children are also being affected.

Other conditions which can affect a child who is obese include joint problems, developing iron and vitamin D deficiency and breathing problems. Sleep apnoea and becoming breathless during and after exercise is much more common in an overweight child. Early puberty has also been linked to child obesity, which can cause problems. A child who is overweight is also more likely to suffer from emotional problems such as a low mood or depression. A lack of confidence and low self esteem are also problems for many overweight children. As a child may be bullied as a result of their size, this may lead to further emotional problems, which can be associated with comfort eating and therefore exacerbating the problem.

Obese children are more likely to become obese adults, but if obesity is recognised in the childhood years there is a higher chance that health problems may be prevented. If the child can also continue into adulthood at a healthy weight, there is a higher likelihood of them raising children who are a healthy weight and avoiding health problems.

Obesity in children may be caused by several factors which includes eating foods which are high in fat, sugar and salt. A lack of exercise is also a huge contributory factor, especially as increasing numbers of children would rather play on their games consoles than take part in outdoor activities. If children have one parent who is obese, research shows that there is a 50 percent chance that the child will be obese too, while a child with both parents being obese has an 80 percent chance of becoming obese. Of course, there are also medical conditions which can cause a child to become overweight and a doctor will be able to check this with appropriate tests. These conditions can be genetic, hormonal or caused by certain medicines.

Whatever the cause of child obesity, the effects on a child are overwhelming. Eating a healthy diet which is low in fat, sugar and salt will help to control a child’s weight. Increased physical activity will also help to keep a child at a healthy weight. For anyone who needs help to reduce your child’s weight or would like advice, contact your doctor or dietician to start your child on the road to health.