Eskişehir Osmangazi University (ESOGU) Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine faculty member Prof. Dr. Uğur Bilge drew attention to the danger of childhood obesity and made an informative statement on the subject, stating that children should be protected from obesity during the summer holidays.
Prof. Dr. Uğur Bilge stated that childhood obesity is a global health problem. Stating that according to the World Health Organization data, adult obesity worldwide has doubled since 1990 and adolescent obesity has quadrupled, Bilge said, “In 2022, 37 million children under the age of 5 were overweight, while more than 390 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 were overweight and 160 million of them were obese. Early intervention in childhood obesity can prevent problems later in life, including diabetes, heart disease and joint problems. In addition to genetic factors, lack of physical activity, unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle lead to weight gain. Parents should be careful in this regard. When schools go on vacation, the whole routine changes. Irregular sleep, meal and activity schedules, more screen time are the perfect environment for children to gain excess weight. Those who are overweight or obese are more prone to this environment and are at higher risk of health problems. Organize meal and snack times to protect children from obesity during the summer vacation period. When meal patterns disappear, children tend to 'snack' throughout the day and take in more calories. Set meal and snack times and only allow children to eat at these times. Using smaller plates and portion sizes helps children get used to eating less and feel full. Provide healthy snacks such as low-sugar yogurt, low-fat cheese, fruit and vegetables. Encourage your child to drink water regularly and limit sugary drinks such as sodas and fruit juice. Limit screen time. Children are not active in front of the screen and tend to eat and increase the amount they eat. Limit screen time and encourage your child to engage in alternative activities such as outdoor play, reading or hobbies. Set regular physical activity goals. Set physical activities for your child every day, such as chores, going for a walk or playing soccer in the backyard or park. Make sure they get enough sleep, set and stick to bedtime and wake-up times close to school year times. Maintaining a regular sleep and meal schedule, eating a healthy diet, engaging in physical activity with children, staying away from screens while eating, and adopting other healthy habits that you want your children to have will help your children follow your example. Setting an example for healthy habits is the most effective way to shape children's behavior.”
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