The lockdown that was imposed in our country due to the rapid spreading of the novel coronavirus, although gave us time to relax and be with our families, but came up with many challenges as well. 14-year-old 'Swayam' Sharma, a student of class 9th, when he had to be home during the lockdown, he spent most of his time watching television, playing video games, eating snacks, and sleeping more than before, as a result of which, he gradually started gaining weight. Initially, it seemed normal to his parents, but they started getting concerned when Swayam would get tired after doing just a little work and started having difficulty breathing. Later on doctor’s advice, along with medication, he changed his lifestyle because of which there is now a slow yet noticeable improvement in him.
During this time, Swayam was not the only one, Tanisha (16), Raghav (16), Koyal (13), and Kaustubh (10) are some other kids who faced the same problem. Not only in adults, but excess weight gain leads to obesity in children also and regarding the same, we spoke to Dr. Sonali Navale Poorandare, Pediatrician. Here is what she explains.
Problems Related To Obesity
Usually, as a consequence of unhealthy eating habits and lifestyle practices, one is likely to face obesity at any age. However, sometimes it can also be due to certain genetics or hormonal problems or some other disease. Dr. Sonali explains that every disease in today's scenario comes along with a little more anxiety and fear. Excess weight gain in children leads to fatigue, loss of sleep, increased tension. Apart from this, they may also have difficulty breathing when they are obese. If the problem increases, one might face major diseases including diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and sleeplessness.
Causes Of Obesity
- Lack of a disciplined routine
- Sitting in one place for long hours due to studies
- Eating out of hunger or sometimes out of stress or boredom
- Consumption of junk, oily, spicy, and too sweet foods, instead of nutritious food
How To Prevent Obesity?
Not only during the times of COVID-19, having healthy eating habits and exercising are extremely important. Dr. Sonali explains that in order to maintain the body’s balance and to keep it healthy, it is essential to have a healthy diet at the right time. Apart from this, by following certain rules, children can be kept away from obesity.
How To Plan A Diet?
For children struggling with obesity, it is important to have a balanced diet at regular intervals throughout the day. Following a proper diet plan will be helpful. You may divide it into four meals a day or consult an expert for the same.
Therefore, taking care of your children, and having proper restrictions on their dietary habits is important. Not only does it affect weight, but childhood obesity is also an invitation to many other serious health problems, which are common to people over 40 years of age.
