Healthy eating helps prevent obesity in children

Experts explain how parents can help fight this disease

According to data from the Ministry of Health, an estimated 6.4 million children are overweight in Brazil and 3.1 million have already become obese. This shows that this problem does not only affect adults. “[A obesidade] it is a chronic nutritional disease characterized by an imbalance between food intake and caloric expenditure,” explains pediatrician Lilian Zaboto.

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The doctor comments that unlike adults, where the diagnosis is easily calculated from the body mass index (BMI), in children it is a little more complex. “From birth and throughout the growth of the little ones, we verify the BMI value through a graph that exposes the variables based on age and gender.”

Factors influencing childhood obesity

The genetic factor plays a fundamental role in the obesity, but can be overcome by a healthy lifestyle. “The accelerated routine of many couples dictates certain habits that promote weight gain. Nowadays, people eat out a lot and families, who do not have time to devote to food preparation, end up opting for quick and ready meals. These ultra-processed options are high in fat, sugar and salt and low in nutrients,” explains Isa Maria de Gouveia Jorge, nutritionist and PhD in Nutrition and Public Health at the University of São Paulo (USP).

The importance of parents in feeding children

The fact is that an adult’s behavior at the table collides with that of a child, so parents should be role models. “It is useless to want your child to fill his plate with vegetables if you don’t have this habit,” says Isa Maria de Gouveia Jorge. Another factor highlighted by the nutritionist is the difficulty that the family has in perceiving the child’s overweight. “This is a cultural issue. In Brazil, a chubby child is considered healthy,” he says.

Prevent childhood obesity

For Isa Maria de Gouveia Jorge, the best way to avoid this disease in children it is the fight against a sedentary lifestyle with the encouragement of parents so that their children go back to practicing sports or playing in the parks, in addition to prevention, which should start early, from breastfeeding.

“Moms shouldn’t neglect the recommended minimum of six months of breastfeeding. When introducing solid foods to your baby, remember that you’ll be responsible for educating her palate, so prioritize fruits and veggies over cookies and processed options.” “, says the professional.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.