Obesity among children has become a huge problem in the United States. Not only can childhood obesity carry on into adulthood, but obese children will also carry on the depression and low self-esteem that comes with obesity. Numerous health problems normally associated with adulthood occur in obese children and are directly caused by obesity. Obesity can be combatted with a combination of diet and exercise.
Heart Disease
Obese children often have many of the warning signs of heart disease. In some cases, children have hearts similar to persons in their 40s. Chances of developing life-threatening heart disease are much higher in obese children because their hearts are still in the process of developing and might develop serious damage that can stay with the child for his or her life.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure among obese children has been slowly increasing. Stroke is a very real risk for children and researchers expect that stroke will start to occur more often among children. Unfortunately, there is no consistent reading that indicates high blood pressure in children and doctors will have to more carefully predict what an adequate blood pressure reading is for a particular child based on his or her gender, age and height.
Diabetes
There are two types of diabetes: Type 1, in which the body does not produce insulin, and Type 2, in which the body cannot properly utilize the insulin it does produce. Type 2 can be brought on by obesity and is now being diagnosed frequently among obese children. Diabetes can lead to eye problems, neuropathy, heart, kidney and skin problems. Diabetes can also lead to stroke. Obesity makes type 1 diabetes worse for children by making it more difficult for the body to use insulin, causing a dangerous condition called double diabetes, meaning they have both Type 1 and Type 2.
Self-Esteem
Obese children are sometimes insulted and teased by other children for their obesity. Studies in 1998 showed that children who were obese were invited less often to social gatherings. Children who are obese often have a difficult time participating in sports, which is a common social event. Obesity can lead to chronic depression and suicidal tendencies later on in life.
Other Problems
Obese children can develop other health problems like joint pain, insomnia, decreased energy, bone deformities, arthritis, asthma, hip problems, gall stones, fatty liver, severe headaches, missed menstrual periods and mood disorders. Many of these conditions, like decreased energy, joint problems and asthma, decrease a child's willingness to exercise, further contributing to obesity.
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