Childhood Obesity

Who is at risk ?

If you are gaining weight it does not always mean that you are becoming obese. Children and young adults need nutrients in order to grow, so they gain weight as time goes on. However, if you consume more than you need and begin putting on extra weight you may be on the road to obesity - combined with all kinds of health problems.

Here are some signs that tell you if you are at risk:

• Children who have obese parents or grandparents are in greater danger of becoming obese than others
• If diseases like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes or heart illnesses run in your family you might be at risk too.
• Bowed legs at an early age can be a warning signal for obesity.
• Depression and a lack of confidence have also been connected to obesity.
• People who don't get enough exercise and sit around and do nothing all day long are definitely more at risk than others.