Written by: Dr Subita Alagh
18 June 2025
Childhood obesity is becoming alarmingly common. Compared to earlier times when kids played outdoors, today's children spend more time indoors with screens and consume more junk food.
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Obesity in kids happens when they take in more calories than they burn. Contributing factors include poor diet, lack of physical activity, genetics, unhealthy environments, and even lack of sleep, which disrupts hunger hormones.
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Childhood obesity isn't just about appearance. It can lead to conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, joint problems, and even depression or social anxiety.
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Offer fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid sugary drinks, and don’t use food as a reward. Involve children in cooking and teach them the value of balanced meals.
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Ensure at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day through walking, sports, or dancing. Limit screen time and make exercise fun by doing it together as a family.
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A consistent sleep routine helps regulate hunger and energy levels. Most school-age children need 9–12 hours of sleep daily. Poor sleep can lead to overeating and weight gain.
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Cook more meals at home and teach kids to eat when hungry and stop when full. Keep junk food out of reach or better, out of the house entirely.
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Children mirror parents. If you eat healthy, avoid junk food, and talk positively about health—not weight—they will too.
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