What is Obesity?
Obesity is a condition in which an excess percentage of body weight (fat) has accumulated and puts a person’s health at risk. For children older than 2 years old, obesity is determined by measuring the child’s Body Mass Index (BMI).
Diagnosis
For children and adolescents, BMI is age- and sex- specific. To determine a child or teen’s BMI, your doctor compares the patient’s weight and height to estimate a healthy body weight based on how tall the patient is. Your child’s BMI can tell you the following:
- Less than 18.5% = underweight
- 18.5% – 24.9% = normal weight
- 25% – 29.9% = overweight
- 30% or greater = obesity
Discuss your child's BMI with your doctor.
Risks
Obese and overweight children and teens are at a higher risk for many health problems, including:
- Asthma
- Sleep apnea
- Skin infections
- Joint pain
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Type 2 Diabetes
In addition to physical health risks, obese and overweight children and teens are at risk for many emotional and social problems as well. Teasing, bullying and discrimination from their peers usually cause these children and teens to have low self-esteem, a negative body image and depression.
We have partnered with the University of Michigan in a BMI study. If your child is eligible for the study, your pediatrician will let you know. Dr. Kronfol has been trained for this study. We frequently have nutrition classes and monthly walks you can sign up for.
Resources
We love these resources for healthy nutrition tips. Please share with us what you think!
https://www.choosemyplate.gov/
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/nutrition/Pages/default.aspx