What To Know About Childhood Obesity

If you’re concerned your child is overweight or obese, Dr. Kristine Liberty, Dr. Steven Kovar, and Dr. Jessica Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics – your pediatrician in Plainfield, IL – are here to help. 

5 Facts to Know About Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is a very common issue that requires attention and a proactive approach from parents, the child’s pediatrician, and sometimes others. Below, Dr. Liberty, Dr. Kovar, and Dr. Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics in Plainfield, IL share some important things for parents to know to empower them to help their children.  

1. Obesity Is Linked to Many Other Issues

Aside from impacting a child’s self-esteem, obesity can lead to many other issues. Some of these include high cholesterol, sleep apnea, heart trouble, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It’s often linked to a shorter life span, so addressing it as early as possible is important. 

2. There Can Be Several Contributing Factors to Consider 

One of the most common causes of obesity in kids is a lack of physical activity, with dietary habits being another top cause. However, other things can play a role, such as genetics, medical conditions, some medication, the child’s environment, and their socioeconomic status. 

3. It’s Not Just About Weight 

Weight’s often thought to be the determining factor of obesity, but it only plays a part. Height, age, gender, and body fat percentage are also factors. 

Additionally, two children of the same age and height might gain weight differently. One might play sports and workout, so their weight could be the same, but the active one has less body fat. 

All of this adds up to a potential misunderstanding of whether a child is obese when going strictly by general guidelines. It’s important to rely on the guidance of pediatricians instead, as they take all the various aspects into account. 

4. It’s Not Something They Typically “Grow Out Of”

Both parents and doctors have assumed in the past that overweight children would eventually “grow out of it.” Unfortunately, the opposite tends to be true, as most obese children remain that way into adulthood. 

5. You Can Make a Difference 

Parents have the power to help their children find a healthier path. Working with the child’s doctor, you can determine the underlying factors and develop a plan to address them. This can include a combination of nutrition and exercise, medication adjustments, gaining access to resources, and more, depending on the child’s needs. 

Work with a pediatrician in Plainfield, IL to get your child on a healthier track. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Liberty, Dr. Kovar, or Dr. Ciszek at Kids First Pediatrics by calling (815) 609-5437.