Mental and Physical Problems Stemming From Childhood Obesity - Research Paper Example

According to Pretlow (2010), childhood obesity is caused by the imbalance between the calorie intake and calorie utilized (p. 1). Changing life styles, life philosophies and eating habits are causing this problem. Many of the modern children consider eating as a recreational activity. They are not much interested in researching the ingredients of the food while taking food from fast food outlets and restaurants. Instead of nutrients, taste is the primary factor considered by the modern children while taking foods.

At the same time, modern generation is less interested in physical workouts even though they are taking excessive fatty and sweetly foods. Thus excess calories acquired through food get deposited or accumulate in the body as fat which will create problems in the life of the child at present as well as in the future. Karnik & Kanekar pointed out that “Lack of playtime, little or no physical education at schools, videogames and excessive TV viewing time are proposed as the major cause of the childhood obesity epidemic” (Karnik & Kanekar, p. 4). Obese children may not be able to socialize properly with peers.

They often undergo bullying and teasing from the fellow students. So, they will try to limit their activities in front of computers or television sets. They may not go out and play with the peers because of the fear of teasing and harassment. Many children have the habit of taking shelter in eating to avoid frustrations generated out of obesity related problems. Overeating may increase the obesity related problems further. Modern researches have shown that childhood obesity may cause physical and mental problems in the current life of the child as well as in the future life of the child.

Physical health problems such as overweight, high blood pressure, cholesterol, coronary problems, diabetes, thyroid etc and mental problems such as lack of self-esteem,