Nutrition and Obesity Prevention 

Biography

Biography: Bulbin Jose

Abstract

Poor nutrition results variety of problems in children, especially excessive weight gain and obesity. Childhood obesity is one of the major public challenges of 21^st century. Its prevalence increased significantly in recent years and a major health concern of the developed world. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicate that the prevalence of obesity is increasing in all pediatric age groups, in both sexes and in various ethnic and racial groups. Many factors, including genetics, environment, metabolism, lifestyle and eating habits, are playing a role in the development of obesity. However, more than 90% of cases are idiopathic, less than 10 percent are associated with hormonal or genetic causes. In most cases, children are overweight because they eat unhealthful foods and lead a sedentary lifestyle. Childhood obesity has acute and chronic effects on physical, social and emotional health. It predisposes to insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, liver and renal disease and reproductive dysfunction. This condition increases the risk of adult-onset obesity and cardiovascular disease. Obesity in children is a complex disorder. The best treatment for obesity in the pediatric population has not yet been defined, however, a treatment that addresses all modifiable factors is recommended. Increasing physical activity and promoting adequate daily intakes of vegetables, fruits and whole grains is effective to decrease the risk of overweight and obesity.