There’s a fat chance your kid might become obese

Published: November 27, 2011

It has been estimated that at least 20% of children from the city are obese. Experts from the city blame it on the changing lifestyle and diet.

“Children’s diet has become more westernised, with consumption of high calorie food like chocolates, ice creams, pizzas, etc. The intake of less fibrous food also gives rise to obesity. It is also caused due to lack of physical activity, reduced play time due to no access to proper playgrounds, spending more time in front of TV and other gadgets, including computers, mobiles and electronic games,” said Dr Anjana Hulse, consultant paediatrician endocrinology, Apollo Hospital.

Obesity seems to be more of an urban problem, as it is mostly seen in high society groups, because of their easy availability of things.

Obesity is observed mostly in schoolchildren. “It is a tendency to put on weight during puberty. Most children cannot make the right choice of food and end up consuming food that is tasty, but unhealthy,” said Dr Hulse.

Obesity is common among children aged below five years. “This is because parents over-feed their children, in an attempt to make them gain weight. Parents should follow the height/weight chart,” said Dr Hulse.

Different studies across India have shown that about 15% to 20% of paediatric population, mainly those from urban schools, are victims of obesity. Obesity among children has increased three-fold as compared to a decade ago. “However, obesity among children is measured according to their age, sex, and the international growth curve set by the World Health Organisation,” said Dr Preethi Galagali, consultant, pediatrician, Chord Road Hospital and a member of Academy of Indian Paediatrics.

Article source: http://www.dnaindia.com/bangalore/report_theres-a-fat-chance-your-kid-might-become-obese_1617958