Adolescents and Obesity
Obesity is a problem that is only once seen in adults but as the years go by, more and more adolescents and even younger children are becoming obese. Obesity is a significantly increasing problem in our society these days. There are many reasons and contributing factors associated with this problem and it is sad to say that most of these reasons are due to our lifestyle. Obesity has become what we call a “lifestyle disease” because many of obesity’s contributing factors are lifestyle associated.
There are many causes and contributing factors on adolescent obesity and they are all complex and interrelated. Factors such as the environment, genetics, low metabolism, eating habits and lifestyle all play a significant role. Obesity occurs when a person consumes more calories than he can burn. A child with a high Body Mass Index (BMI) is likely to develop obesity especially if his habits and lifestyle is not changed or corrected. A child of obese parents is at higher risk to develop obesity. If both the parents are overweight, then there are 80% chances of developing obesity in children. There are certain medical conditions such as endocrine and neurological problems, which can cause obesity. Some of the common causes of obesity in children and adolescents are poor eating habits, lack of exercise, overeating or binging, family and peer problems, family history of obesity, certain medications such as steroids, some psychiatric medications, low self-esteem, depression, emotional problems and stressful life events such as divorce of parents, death of beloved one or abuse. Dietary habits of adolescents are one of the major causes of obesity due to the proliferation of fast food chains and “instant food” which packs calories but low in essential nutrients. Sedentary lifestyle also is a big factor. Kids nowadays are often seen in front of the television or the computer. They prefer this than playing outside or exercise.
Obesity is a very serious problem that when left untreated, can lead to life-changing medical, health, physical and psychological problems. One health problem caused by obesity are orthopedic problems like slipped capital-femoral epiphysis. They may also suffer from pseudo tumor cerebri, gall bladder disease, Blount disease, sleep apnea and hypertension. They are at greater risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases and breathing problems. An obese child shows the symptoms such as chronic mouth breathing, hyperactivity, daytime sleepiness, morning headache, systemic and/or pulmonary hypertension, cyanosis and cardiac rhythm disturbances. These are only some of the health problems that are associated with obesity. The psychological effects of adolescent obesity are low self-esteem, inferiority complex, poor memory or concentration, poor performance at school, anxiety, depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Adolescent obesity can be treated. The treatment should be participated, not only by the person concerned but also his family and friends who will act as a support group because this kind of treatment can’t be done alone. Treatment is a long process but very rewarding in the end. Primary among the changes to be made involves dietary changes which is one of the hardest part of the treatment process. Foods containing fats and high calories should be strictly excluded from their diet. However, care should be taken so that adolescents get enough nutrients required for a healthy growth through their diet. Another is increasing their physical activities and exercise. Minimize time spent in front of the television or the computer. In extreme or severe cases, medications are given but only under strict supervision of a doctor.