Childhood obesity is a growing health concern these days and its prevalence is increasing all over the world. According to experts, children who are overweight or obese are at more risk of developing heath issues in the future as compared to children having normal weight.
What Are The Causes Of Childhood Obesity?
Genetics and lifestyle are the two main causes of childhood obesity. If one or both of the parents are overweight or obese, their kids are more likely to be obese. Lifestyle factors such as overeating, less physical activity, too much of time spent in front of television, mobiles or laptops and consumption of unhealthy foods such as fries, cakes, aerated drinks or other oily and sugary foods can significantly lead to obesity.
Obesity and Thyroid Dysfunction
Obesity can lead to thyroid dysfunction. Some studies have suggested that childhood obesity can affect thyroid function and structure. Hence as the child grows older, there is more amount of stress on the thyroid gland thus leading to decreased production of thyroid hormones like T4 and TSH. This in turn leads to difficulty in losing weight because the rate of metabolism is lowered. It has been observed that thyroid function can come back to normal if there is significant weight loss as it can lead to normalization of the TSH production. Interleukins and inflammatory cytokines play an important role in thyroid autoimmunity. In obese or overweight children, there is enhanced secretion of cytokines and interleukins, thus leading to an under-functional thyroid.
How can thyroid issues be diagnosed?
Thyroid imbalances can be diagnosed by:
Apart from thyroid imbalances, childhood obesity is linked to diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, fatigue, joint problems, muscle cramps, breathing issues such as shortness of breath, asthma or sleep apnea, liver disorders and psychological conditions such as anxiety or depression
How Can Childhood Obesity Be Prevented?
Childhood obesity if not kept under control, can lead to very serious health problems later. It is important to take proper medical guidance at very early stages. In addition to this, efforts must be made to bring about lifestyle changes to prevent further weight gain.
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