Hormonal imbalance is not the only cause of childhood obesity, say experts -
The number of children who are obese remains alarming in the US and unfortunately , diseases associated with obesity are on the rise. Worried about their overweight children, many parents wonder when other diagnoses, such as hypothyroidism could be the reason behind the weight gain of their child.
But according to experts more often the underlying issues are more strongly influenced by environment factors, such as the largely sedentary lifestyle or caloric intake which exceeds the daily needs of a child. Other environmental influences and genetic profile are additional topics for research and discussion.
"Parents understand that obesity is a very serious disease. They are looking for ways to help their child become healthier and often distracted from the real issues. Rarely some children may have a hormonal problem. However, this represents less than 1 percent of all causes of childhood obesity, "said Himala, Kashmiri, DO, chief of pediatric endocrinology at Loyola University Health System and assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine of.
"In general, weight gain and subsequent obesity are the result of the risk that predispose a child to obesity and the environment."
"If a child stops them straight up or slows down as regards the gain in height or otherwise shorter than expected because of the height of the parent, then that certainly could and should raise concerns for hormonal imbalance that can lead to weight gain. The only weight gain, however, is not only a sign of hormonal imbalance, "said Kashmiri
Other signs that a child may have a hormonal problem include :.
• Drinking and urinating more than before
• excessive hunger
• Experiencing unexplained weight loss
• Feeling tired and cold
• Bowl irregularities
• Hair changes, skin or nail
• poor linear growth or small
"If your child has a weight gain with these other symptoms, it is important to talk to your pediatrician about seeing a specialist," said Kashmiri. "While severe obesity continues to rise, strategies to intervene and prevent childhood obesity are actually effective. These include the reduction of sugary drinks, portion control, limiting fast food, to healthier food choices, increasing physical activity and decreasing screen time. "
" obesity can lead to many health problems such as diabetes, high cholesterol, low self -esteem, liver disease, high blood pressure and even cancer, "he said." If your child is gaining weight talk to your pediatrician about resources and strategies to help manage weight and reduce the risk of your child for these potential consequences. "
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