Childhood Obesity: Prevention and Management in Children and Adolescents

Childhood obesity is one of the most pressing public health problems today. It affects both developed and developing countries, and its consequences extend from childhood to adulthood. In this article, we will address the main causes, prevention strategies, and recommendations for effective management in children and adolescents.

📌 What is childhood obesity and why is it a concern?

Childhood obesity is defined as excessive accumulation of body fat that negatively affects the health of a child or adolescent. It is generally diagnosed using the body mass index (BMI), adjusted for age and sex. This indicator allows us to assess whether a child's weight is above the healthy range for their development.

This condition not only has physical implications—such as an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or orthopedic problems—but also emotional ones, including low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and social exclusion, which can negatively impact academic performance and social relationships.

📌 Common causes of childhood obesity

• Unhealthy eating: Diets high in sugars, saturated fats, and ultra-processed foods, low in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Lack of physical activity: Sedentary lifestyle due to excessive use of screens (TV, video games, mobile devices) and lack of safe spaces to play.
• Genetic and hormonal factors: Some children may have a genetic predisposition to gain weight, as well as endocrine disorders that affect metabolism.
• Family atmosphere: Eating habits, irregular schedules, frequent consumption of fast food, and lack of supervision directly influence children.
• Psychological factors: Eating due to anxiety, stress, boredom, or as an emotional compensation mechanism.

📌 Short and long-term consequences

• In infancy: Fatigue, difficulty performing physical activity, respiratory problems, sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases.
• In adolescence: Early development of metabolic diseases (insulin resistance, prediabetes), joint problems, body image disorders, and an increased risk of bullying at school.
• In adulthood: High likelihood of remaining obese, developing cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and even some types of cancer. It is also associated with a lower quality of life and life expectancy.

📌 Prevention of obesity in children and adolescents

Prevention should begin in the earliest years of life and be a collaborative effort between parents, schools, health professionals, and the community. Some key actions include:

• Promote a balanced diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit sweets, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed snacks.
• Promote regular physical activity: At least 60 minutes of active play or sports every day. Walking, biking, dancing, or playing in the park are all great options.
• Limit screen time: No more than two hours a day for entertainment. It's important to promote active breaks and outdoor activities.
• Establish healthy family routines: Eat together as a family, maintain regular schedules, sleep between 9 and 11 hours depending on age, and avoid eating in front of the television.
• Educate from childhood: Include topics on nutrition, sleep hygiene, emotional management, and self-care at home and at school.
• Set an example: Children imitate what they see. Parents and caregivers should adopt and model healthy habits.

📌 Management of childhood obesity

Treatment should be comprehensive, individualized, and always under the supervision of a multidisciplinary health team (pediatrician, nutritionist, psychologist, physical educator). Some strategies include:

• Medical and nutritional evaluation: To determine the cause, identify comorbidities, and design a personalized plan.
• Family interventions: Parents and caregivers must be an active part of the process, as changes at home are essential.
• Healthy Eating Plan: Adapted to the child's age, culture, preferences, and needs. It should be flexible, sustainable, and free of extreme restrictions.
• Progressive physical activity: Fun, non-competitive exercises appropriate for your age and fitness level. The goal is to enjoy movement.
• Psychological support: To work on self-esteem, body image, relationship with food, and possible associated eating disorders.
• Regular follow-up: Regular check-ins to evaluate progress, reinforce achievements, identify difficulties, and adjust the plan if necessary. Celebrating small victories is essential to maintaining motivation.

💡 Final Reflection: Care today, prevent tomorrow

Childhood obesity is preventable and treatable if addressed early with commitment, empathy, and comprehensive support. Promoting healthy habits from childhood not only improves children's physical health but also their emotional and social well-being. It is everyone's responsibility—family, school, and community—to create environments that facilitate healthy choices.

Let's remember that a healthy child is more likely to become a healthy and happy adult. Educating, supporting, and setting an example is the best investment for the future!