‘Over 22 pct children in Kuwait are obese’
Parents urged to understand psychological effect of childhood obesity TSC supports Gulf English School Annual Sports Day
A photo from the event
KUWAIT CITY, Nov 23: This World Anti-Obesity Day, experts are calling for parents to introduce more exercise and healthy eating into their children’s daily lives to prevent the emerging obesity epidemic in the region, and help prevent the psychological effects of obesity.
Childhood obesity has emerged as a major health challenge around the globe affecting more than 41 million children worldwide, and forecasted to reach 70 million by 2025, if current trends continue. According to the World Health Organisation, over 22 percent of children in the Kuwait are classed as obese. Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) — many of which are linked to obesity — could cost the GCC $68 billion a year in lost output and treatment costs by 2022.
The psychological effects of obesity are overwhelmingly evident according to Bahee Van de Bor, Specialist Paediatric Dietitian at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH) in London. “Overweight and obese children are likely to remain obese into adulthood and face problems such as depression and bullying, which can further decrease children’s self-esteem and mental well-being,” says Ms Van de Bor. She added that to avoid the psychological problems continuing into adulthood, it is important to tackle childhood obesity early.
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Epidemic
Dr Lee Hudson, Consultant General Paediatrician at GOSH emphasises the severity of the problem stating that it is an emerging epidemic in the region and says that “issues with weight tend to build over time and they can go unnoticed by the family until the problems are established”.
Obesity has several effects on a child’s health, now and in the future, and is a leading cause of death around the world. Obese children have an increased risk as adults for strokes, coronary artery disease, hypertension and diabetes, which will lead to a decreased quality of life and a shortened lifespan.
“Losing weight is hard, and the treatment for being overweight is usually the same as the way to prevent it,” says Dr Hudson who is urging families in the Middle East to take action against childhood obesity. Dr Hudson and Ms Van De Bor agree that the support network around the child can play a key role in the prevention or treatment of obesity. “It is important that the family encourage positive body image from an early age, teach their children about nutrition and understand what factors are driving weight gain,” urges Ms Van de Bor.
People who do exercise regularly have a 50 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes and 30 percent lower risk of early death, dementia and depression. In addition to the health benefits of exercise, Ms Van de Bor highlights that overweight and obese children who exercise regularly will see benefits in their school performance as they are able to focus and concentrate better.
Children need around 60 minutes of exercise a day which can be split between school and extra-curricular activities. Being active and eating healthy shouldn’t feel like chores to the child and should be incorporated in an enjoyable way as simple as playing tag.
Tackling the problem together as a family can be a great step towards a healthy lifestyle and Ms Van de Bor recommends that parents participate in the activity with their child and prepare a nutritious snack for them to eat immediately after the activity.
“This reduces the temptation to snack on high sugar/fat snacks later in the day. Always offer your support and understanding and ensure that there are plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables and healthy snacks readily available for children to eat at home when hungry,” she says.
Tips for parents
Dr Lee Hudson
A photo from the event
Due to the positive response of last year’s event from parent and teachers of Gulf English School and in order to promote a healthy lifestyle and eating habits among the younger generation, The Sultan Center (TSC) supported the Gulf English School during their annual sports day event by providing snack bags filled with a variety of healthy snacks. Held at Salmiya Park the event was attended by over 500 parents and students, who took part in the annual sporting event. The sport’s day turned into a true demonstration on the right way to keep healthy and prompting a healthy lifestyle.
To further promote healthy eating habits among the younger generation TSC continues to promote and encourage children to try a healthy snack alternative by offering them a chance to sample fruit whenever they visit any TSC store, each store has set up a table along with signage that attracts and welcomes children to try a piece of fruit as their parents shop. Commenting on this initiative, Lisa Al-Gharib, Marketing Manager said, “we have received very positive feedback from parents and customer on this initiative and plan to launch similar activities that encourage and promote healthy eating habits at an early stage in their life.”
TSC plays an active role in the community by supporting health initiatives and wellness campaigns in order to promote a healthy lifestyle.