Childhood Obesity: 4 Signs Your Child’s Obesity Is Doing More Damage Than You Think by Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP

Kids' Health
5 years ago

Childhood Obesity: 4 Signs Your Child’s Obesity Is Doing More Damage Than You Think

Most parents know obesity isn’t healthy and can lead to heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure, but many overlook the severity of the more peripheral consequences that come with being overweight as a kid. Here are some of the biggest concerns:

  • Bullying: Obese kids are four times more likely to be called names, physically victimized and excluded from group activities.  
  • Emotional turmoil: Overweight kids tend to have a harder time fitting in, which can lead to anxiety, low self-esteem and depression.
  • Insomnia: Lack of sleep perpetuates weight gain, and only 20 percent of adolescents get the recommended amount of sleep.
  • Poor academic performance: Obese kids may have lower test scores, are more likely to be held back a grade and less likely to go on to college. 

Obese kids between the ages 10 and 13 are 80 percent more likely to be obese adults, but that’s not the only problem they face. Parents should be on the lookout for signs that their child needs extra help navigating their challenges. Nurse practitioners (NPs) have the skills and experience to help parents and kids struggling with obesity. Consider an NP.

Childhood Obesity: Here Are 4 Easy Steps to Help Your Child Fight Obesity

Heart Disease & Obesity: Here's How Your Family Can Fight Back!

Want to Reduce Your Family's Obesity Risk? Stop Doing This One Common Thing!

​Overweight Kids: Are Parents to Blame for Their Child’s Obesity?

Elisa Schmitz
Important information about obesity, which seems to continue to rise. As always, we appreciate all you share, Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP !
Angie Golden
Your points are well make Dr. Knestrick and I thank you for highlighting obesity in children. However as people read this there is a glaring issue. These are not obese children but children with obesity. The Obesity Action Coalition as well as the major obesity societies are asking that everyone use person first language for all of us with this chronic disease. Again thank you for bring child hood obesity to the conversation.

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Mental Health Awareness Month: 8 Mental Health Tips From the Experts

What Does Happy Look Like? 8 Characteristics of Happy, Prosperous People

Mental Health Stigma: Are You Part of the Problem & Misunderstanding of Mental Illness?

Spring Into Well-being: 15 Inspirational Tips for a Healthier You