Most children don't have a proactive view of their well-being. They're busy making friends, exploring passions, and developing hobbies as they grow, so parents are in charge of supporting their healthy development and reducing the risk of child obesity that exceeds their natural body type. If you're in the first few years as a parent, it's helpful to familiarize yourself with some early risk factors and healthy ways to overcome them. 

What Risk Factors Can Lead to Child Obesity?

1. Activity Levels

The calories your child consumes need to be balanced by those burned off to maintain a stable weight. With regular exercise and an active lifestyle, this can be managed well in most cases. Help your children increase their activity levels by encouraging extracurricular sports, playing outside, bike riding, and other activities. You may need to set limits on screen time to achieve this, but doing so can help reduce childhood obesity rates. 

2. Genetics

While genetics isn't likely to be the main cause of obesity, it can contribute to higher levels of hunger and increased food intake. This is due to genetic predispositions in an individual's body, which can increase the risk of child obesity. If you notice your child has a strong appetite, try to help them fuel their body with healthy, nutritious food that can be easily digested and used for energy, such as applesauce, chicken, scrambled eggs, and whole-grain toast.

3. Medication or Illness

Medications can cause a number of side effects. If your child is prescribed steroids or antidepressants, talk to your doctor about whether there is an increased risk of weight gain. Knowing this ahead of time can help you counteract the effects or choose alternative medications. Similarly, some illnesses, like Cushing's disease, can cause obesity, so it's important to see a pediatrician regularly. 

4. Food Intake

Both the amount and quality of food consumed can contribute to weight gain. This is especially true in regard to junk food or processed foods high in sugar. 

Although more convenient, fast food and packaged meals are higher in calories and can lead to childhood obesity if not eaten in moderation. Instead, try having a healthy, balanced dinner each night with your family. These types of habits will stick with your children as they age and provide a healthy foundation for their future. 

If you notice early signs of child obesity, schedule a physical with Mante Pediatrics. With family-oriented clinics in Rock Hill and Chester, SC, these doctors provide pediatric care, sports physicals, wellness visits, and more. They offer age-appropriate nutritional advice and behavioral assessments to develop a total body health plan for your child. With outstanding pediatric care, your child will feel relaxed and comfortable during all interactions. To learn more about their complete list of services, visit their website or call (803) 385-2075 to schedule an appointment today.