As countries mark World Obesity Day, an annual event observed on March 4, a study by The Lancet predicts that by the year 2050, almost two in three adults over the age of 25 will be overweight or obese.
The study also warns that there is an increased prevalence of obesity in children and this trend is expected to increase over the next 30 years.
The new study bolsters a report by the World Obesity Atlas published in 2022 that warned that over 1 million Kenyan children would be obese by 2030.
KBC Digital engaged Lucy Chege, a registered and licensed nutritionist, who wrote about how to prevent childhood obesity.
Why childhood obesity is on the rise in Kenya and how to stop it
Childhood health concerns are often associated with common issues like ear infections, colds, and acne, rather than serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or hypertension. Unfortunately, an increasing number of children are being diagnosed with obesity and its related “adult diseases,” including type 2 diabetes.
The rise in childhood obesity is particularly worrying since overweight children are at risk of becoming obese adults, which can have negative social, economic, and medical consequences.
When it comes to addressing childhood obesity and overweight, a balanced approach is crucial. The following strategies can be helpful in preventing or managing obesity, depending on the goal:
- Family meals should reflect calorie control both in the foods served and the preparation methods used.
- Involve children in grocery shopping and meal preparation to encourage them to make healthier choices.
- Encourage children to eat only when hungry, to eat slowly and mindfully, to enjoy mealtime with others, and to stop eating when full.
- Teach children how to select nutrient-dense foods that meet their nutritional needs while staying within their energy limits. Additionally, help them learn to serve themselves appropriate portion sizes.
- Limit foods high in saturated and trans fats, as well as those high in added sugars, such as sugary drinks and junk food.
- Avoid forcing children to clear their plates, prioritizing quality over quantity.
- Plan for healthy snack options and keep them readily available.
- Discourage eating while watching TV or other media, which can contribute to physical inactivity and unhealthy habits. Instead, encourage outdoor play and physical activity with peers.
Immediate action is necessary to prevent millions of children from developing type 2 diabetes and hypertension in childhood, followed by cardiovascular disease in early adulthood. Making wise food choices from childhood to adulthood can help individuals meet physical, emotional, and mental challenges and lead a healthy life free of disease.
