It's hard for kids to be overweight. Adults know the difficulties with carrying those extra pounds but for kids, obesity can be a very difficult time in life.
Studies have shown that overweight kids suffer social and emotional stresses in addition to those experienced by their normal-sized peers. Using the BMI as a tool, the kids measured to be overweight have a harder time relating to their peers and they also show early signs of mental and emotional stress (such as inability to concentrate, irritability, sadness, and a sense of failure).
An unfortunate effect of this weight-related angst is the tendency to overeat in an attempt to find comfort. This is truly a case of "the worse it gets, the worse it gets"...if the child is a social outcast or if he is mocked by his peers, he is likely to eat more and gain more weight. This is a vicious cycle.
The problem appears to be worse for the child who has been overweight since age five or so. For example, if a nine-year old gains weight, he will suffer emotional consequences. However, if he has been overweight since he entered kindergarten he will more likely already have self-esteem issues. This seems to occur because when he left his mother's bosom and entered "the world," it was probably the first time he was teased about his weight. This sets a pattern in motion of feeling self-conscious. Thus, by the time he is eight or nine he already expects to be marginalized.
As though this situation is not already dismal, it is compounded by the danger of setting the stage for adult obesity. Most children who are overweight become overweight adults. Thus, they are at risk of developing the diseases associated with chronic obesity...diabetes, heart disease, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, and fatty liver.
It should be obvious that it is of paramount importance that early intervention be sought. Parents and guardians need to learn the fundamental principles of good nutrition and institute them as early in the child's life as possible. Let's look at a few of the basics:
• Increase the intake of fruits and vegetables.
• Reduce intake of fat, especially saturated fat, cholesterol, and trans fats.
• Eliminate foods and beverages with added sugar.
• Increase the intake of whole grains.
• Incorporate daily exercise.
Seek medical attention so that your doctor can eliminate physical or hormonal disorders causing your child's weight issues. This is an unlikely possibility but it is prudent to check. Further, don't put a growing child on a "diet" designed for adults. A child's needs are completely different. He needs to lose weight but at the same time he needs a diet that provides nutrients needed for healthy growth and development.
Get them to stop drinking sugary pop today! Your child will be on his way to the ideal weight!
By Sue Bristol, R.N.
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