Childhood and adolescent obesity has become a growing public health issue worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as an unusual or excessive buildup of fat that could negatively impact one’s health, a risky factor that may cause chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal disorders, and some cancers. Recent data proved that the prevalence of obesity among children and teenagers has increased significantly over the past years and could develop into adult obesity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 340 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 were overweight or obese in 2016 and 39 million children under the age of 5 were overweight or obese in 2020 (“Obesity and overweight”).
Since overweight and obesity lead to several chronic diseases, precautionary management of obesity is the starting point of preventing chronic diseases. Preventing and managing obesity through a healthy diet is essential for maintaining overall good health and well-being. To achieve and maintain a healthy weight, it is recommended to have a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Moreover, snacks and processed foods high in added sugars and fats should be avoided as they can contribute to weight gain. It is also recommended to eat regular balanced meals and avoid skipping meals. Adding on, eating slowly and staying hydrated are good habits for a healthy diet. Inday.
To manage weight and health, exercise is mandatory. Regular exercise combined with a healthy diet enhances weight management and prevents obesity. However, the most important thing to remember is that maintaining a healthy weight should be a long-term commitment, not a one-month project. It is fundamental to commit yourself to a healthy diet for a better and longer life.
Work Cited
“Obesity and overweight.” World Health Organization, 9 June 2021,
www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/obesity-and-overweight.
By. Reea Kim