As per the latest reports by UNICEF, the global children’s organisation, for the first time, more children around the world are obese than underweight. This is a big shift in child health and nutrition, and is quite concerning, too. The Junior Age provides all the details you need to know about the rise of childhood obesity.
Know All About UNICEF And Its Warning About How Childhood Obesity Is On The Rise, And Ways To Tackle It:
The reports by UNICEF state that around 188 million children and teenagers aged 5 to 19 are now living with obesity. That is approximately 9.4% of children in this age group worldwide. Meanwhile, the number of underweight children has fallen to 9.2%. Back in 2000, underweight children were much more common at 13%.
The possible reasons for childhood obesity to happen are:
1. Too Much Junk Food Leading to Childhood Obesity
These days, many kids eat foods that are high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These ultra-processed junk foods are spotted everywhere from supermarkets, online stores, and even on TV. While they taste good, however, eating too much junk food can lead to weight problems.
2. Change in Type of Meals
In today’s fast-paced life, the traditionally home-cooked and healthy meals have taken a back seat. They are now being replaced by easy-to-cook, packaged meals that aren’t very nutritious. In some countries, these calorie-packed foods are cheap and easy to get, which makes them even more popular.
Which Countries Are Most Affected by Childhood Obesity?
Some of the highest rates of childhood obesity are in the Pacific Island nations. In countries like Niue and the Cook Islands, nearly 40% of kids are living with obesity, which is a huge number!
Other countries also have worrying numbers:
- Chile: About 27% of children aged 5 to 19 are obese.
- United States: Around 21% of kids fall into the obesity category.
- United Arab Emirates: Similarly, 21% of children are affected.
Childhood obesity can lead to serious health problems like type 2 diabetes, heart issues, and other illnesses. It can also affect how kids grow, learn, and feel about themselves.
UNICEF’s Advice on How to Tackle Childhood Obesity
UNICEF states that this is not just about one country or one kid. It is a global issue, and everyone has a role to play. Here is what they recommend:
1. Make Schools a Healthy Zone
- Schools should limit or completely remove junk food from canteens.
- Offer more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein-packed snacks.
- Teach kids about nutrition in fun ways, like cooking classes, school gardens, or interactive food games.
2. Reduce Junk Food Marketing to Kids
- Companies should not advertise sugary drinks, sweets, or fast food to children.
- Parents and teachers can help kids spot marketing tricks, so they know when an ad is trying to make them crave unhealthy foods.
3. Encourage Active Lifestyles
- Daily physical activity is crucial: walking, cycling, playing outside, or sports.
- Limit screen time so kids are not sitting for long hours watching TV or playing games.
- Make movement fun like dancing, skipping, or even family games count!
4. Raise Awareness and Educate
- Kids should know why eating too much sugar and fat can be harmful.
- Schools and parents can share tips for smart snacking and balanced meals.
- Understanding nutrition helps kids make better choices for themselves now and in the future.
Obesity is about helping kids grow healthy and strong. With the right support from schools, families, and communities, children can enjoy tasty meals, stay active, and feel their best every day.
Also, read 30 Screen-Free Activities for Kids!