World Obesity Day became a niche in 2015, which is relatively early compared to other important health days. World Obesity Day March 4th is an opportunity for people to speak up and raise awareness about obesity around the world. It is important to discuss As global obesity has nearly tripled since 1975, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), what’s even more alarming is that it’s not just working adults. But also children are affected by obesity. As many as 39 million children under five are overweight or obese in 2020, according to the World Health Organization. It’s no surprise that diet plays a key role in childhood obesity.
If your child has an abnormally large amount of fat that may affect his or her health that is obesity India is projected to have over 27 million obese children, one in ten children worldwide, in the next seven years, according to Unicef’s World Obesity Atlas 2022.
HealthShots connects with Dr Shahid Shafi Bhat, Internal Medicine Consultant, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, Moradabad, to learn more about childhood obesity and the foods that can cause it.
He said dietary factors were the main contributors to increasing obesity rates. Foods served in fast food restaurants or restaurants tend to be high in calories and have little or no nutritional value. High-calorie diets high in fat and carbohydrates play an important role in childhood obesity.
Here are some of the foods that make kids fat.
1. Fast food
Pizza is an Italian dish made from wheat flour. Garnish with plenty of vegetables or meat. It may sound healthy. but with the amount of cheese added can lead to rapid weight gain likewise Other fast foods like burgers and ground beef are also high in fat, says Dr Bhat. You should avoid junk food in your kids’ diet. because it may cause more health problems
2. Potato Chips
The fries come in colorful packets and sizes to tempt the little ones. But don’t make it a habit to feed your child. Because potatoes are high in calories. salt and unsaturated fat
3. Sweets
Candy, sweets and chocolate are favorites of children. Many mothers even use these sweets to bribe them. How many times have you told your child to study hard and get chocolate? don’t do that because in addition to rotten teeth It also makes children fat.
4. Ice cream
Now winter has given way to summer. Many people were affected by the heat wave. Ice cream seems to be the best way to beat the heat. The truth is, it’s not a healthy choice. Because it’s full of sugar and fat. and has a high glycemic index It’s an expert scoring system for carb-containing food items, but you can make your own low-calorie ice cream at home without added sugar.
5. Noodles
Noodles are a favorite of many people, and you don’t always have to go to a Chinese restaurant to try them. Many vendors also serve noodles that many people consume. Made with whole wheat flour that is full of carbohydrates and fats. Therefore, noodles should be avoided.
6. Juice
Avoid giving too much juice. Especially juices packed in tetra boxes. Because it’s high in sugar and calories. Instead, eat whole fruit. Because these fruits will provide fiber. So just cut it into pieces. and let the child eat
But experts say don’t completely exclude your child from fatty and sugary foods. because it will increase their appetite Make sure you give it an occasional snack and don’t make it a habit. They can eat all kinds of food but only in moderation.
More tips to fight obesity in children
If your child is obese Some tips can help. You can involve your kids in planning, preparing and buying food. This way, you will be able to understand their preferences and teach them about the importance of nutrition. Also, encourage them to eat slowly. by chewing food properly because it will make you full Help your child understand patterns in how he or she eats when sad, bored, or lonely. Help them know what real hunger is. And don’t use food as punishment or reward. This only creates an unhealthy relationship between the child and food.
