What Are the Causes of Obesity in Children ?

Obesity, which is associated with increased risk for diabetes, heart disease and other diseases, is generally a result of multiple factors. Genetics, lifestyle and emotional issues may influence whether a child becomes obese. An understanding of these factors can help ensure that preventative or proper treatment measures are taken.

Poor Eating Habits

Poor eating habits, such as overeating and consuming primarily unhealthy foods, can result in obesity in children. According to the Mayo Clinic, eating far more calories than the amount burned is a primary cause of childhood obesity. Since children acquire much of their eating habits from their parents and other family members, a healthy dietary lifestyle that involves the entire family is a means of preventing and reducing obesity. 

Foods commonly associated with obesity include those dense in saturated fats, trans fats and added sugars. Saturated fats are found in red meat, butter, whole-milk cream and ice cream. Trans fats are common in commercially prepared, processed snack foods, such as cookies, cakes, pastries, chips and pie crust, as well as shortening, margarine and deep-fried foods. To improve the nutritional wellness of your family, increase consumption of healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, low-fat dairy products and lean protein sources. Replace unhealthy fat sources, such as butter, with modest amounts of olive or canola oil.

Inactivity

Increased body fat develops when you consume more calories than you burn through physical activity. Inactivity, or lack of physical exercise, is a common contributor to childhood obesity. When children are inactive, their caloric needs are reduced, and overeating becomes easier and more feasible. To make matters worse, the two often go hand-in-hand, as children who spend more time in front of the television or playing indoors rather than participating in sports or other active hobbies tend to consume higher amounts of snack foods, which generally provide empty calories and few nutrients. 

The American Heart Association suggests reducing sedentary time for your child and encouraging him to partake in physical activities he enjoys. In addition, you should model physical fitness and enthusiasm for your child. Take bike rides or family hikes during weekends or vacations and encourage your child to appreciate his body for what it can do and what it provides him with, such as strength and vitality, rather than placing emphasis on physical size or body weight.

Hormonal Disorders and Genetics

Hormonal disorders, such as Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and Cushing's syndrome, cause obesity in a small percentage of children. Such disoders are severe and often lead to obesity regardless of one's activity or dietary factors. According to the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association, those with PWS suffer from a genetic problem in the brain that adversely affects appetite and metabolism. Such children have short stature, reduced metabolism and insatiable appetite. If you suspect a genetic disorder is at the root of your child's obesity, talk to your doctor about proper medical testing.