The symptoms of obesity in children aren't always easily spotted. Many people still equate a fat baby with a healthy baby. Unfortunately, a fat baby can lead to an overweight child. So how do you determine whether a child is obese?
Obesity and BMI
One reliable measure of obesity is BMI, or Body Mass Index. This figure should be calculated by a pediatrician for accuracy; don't rely on online tables or formulas to make your own guess. Obesity BMI calculations for children are a little different than those for adults, because children grow quickly and sometimes carry extra fat that disappears as they grow.
BMI is determined by multiplying the child's weight in pounds by the height in inches squared, then multiplying by a conversion factor of 703 (weight /(height x height) x 703). BMI is based on age, sex and height in children. The results are compared to statistical averages for the child's age group. If a child's BMI indicates obesity, your pediatrician will perform additional tests to determine if weight is a problem.
The most common symptoms of morbid obesity in children include disproportionate appearance of facial features and an unusually large abdomen. Boys may experience adiposity in the breast area or have exceptionally small genitals. For obese children, puberty may occur earlier than in children of normal weight.
Dangers of Obesity
It is important to step in and take action if you suspect your child is obese, because there are many dangerous side effects and health risks. A child that is obese may have increased blood pressure and high cholesterol. These can lead to heart and liver disease. Obese children may suffer from Sleep Apnea, bone and joint problems; Type 2 Diabetes and Asthma.
The things that contribute to childhood obesity are lack of exercise, poor diet and excessive eating. There are steps parents and children can take to fight obesity and reduce health risks. Eating a healthy diet is the first and biggest priority. Eliminate junk food, fast food and snacking. Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables. Watch calorie intake, encouraging the child to eat reasonable portions.
Next, turn off the television, computers and video games. Send the child outside to get exercise. If your child has trouble finding motivation, sign her up for swim classes or recreational sports. Consider fitness classes for parents and kids, so that you can spend some time together and get healthy.
 | Teen obesity is on the rise, and it comes with health risks. While there's no overnight solution, you can help your kids live a healthier lifestyle by joining them in a commitment to healthy eating and exercise. |
 | There are many childhood obesity causes. Experts agree that there is rarely one single cause of obesity in a particular child, but a combination of genetic and environmental contexts. |
 | The effects of childhood obesity are physical, psychological and emotional. In addition to the same health risks suffered by adults, overweight kids suffer from social effects that can be difficult to handle at a young age. |
The dangers of childhood obesity aren't limited to taunting at school. Diseases once found only in adults are now appearing in obese children. |
Childhood obesity facts are alarming in the United States. Around 12% of children under 19 are obese and facing threats to their long-term health. |
