Genetics plays an important role in determining body weight. Studies show that children with two parents of normal weight have a 10% chance of becoming overweight. One overweight parent increases that chance to 40%, and if both parents are overweight, children have an 80% chance to become overweight later in life (Bray, 1998).
The gene pool in the U.S. has not changed significantly in the past two decades (Koplan, & Dietz, 1999); however, children are becoming heavier every year.
Take a look at this graph below:
This trend indicates that not only do genetics play a part in obesity, but so do environmental factors.
The leading factors contributing to the development of overweight are sedentary lifestyle and increased caloric intake. Less energy expended on physical activity and consumption of excessive calories create an obvious energy imbalance leading to overweight.
Since overweight begins in childhood, and studies demonstrate that being overweight as a child is associated with being overweight in adulthood (Serdula, Ivery, Coates, Freedman, Williamson, & Byers, 1993), parents need to take an initiative to teach their children healthy eating habits and encourage physical activity on a daily basis, starting from infancy.
This article begins a new series on overweight. Next time, we will explore helpful strategies for the whole family to maintain a healthy weight.
References:
Bray, G. (1998). Contemporary Diagnosis and Management of Obesity. Newton, PA: Handbooks in Healthcare, Co.
Koplan, J., & Dietz, W. (1999). Caloric imbalance and public health policy. JAMA, 282(16), 1579-1581.
Serdula, M., Ivery, D., Coates, R., Freedman, D., Williamson, D., & Byers, T. (1993). Do Obese Children Become Obese Adults? A Review of the Literature. Preventive Medicine, 22, 167-177.
| |||||
More articles by this author
Encouraging High Self-Esteem
Lactose Intolerant?
The Lactose-Free Diet and Bone Health
