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Neilsen, David. "How Does Childhood Obesity Work?." 01 May 2007. HowStuffWorks.com. <http://health.howstuffworks.com/childhood-obesity.htm> 17 May 2008.
Inside This Article
Are You At Risk?
If you’re gaining weight, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you're becoming obese. Children and adolescents need extra nutrients and calories to grow and develop, so you’ll naturally gain weight over time. However, if you consume more than you need and you begin to put on extra weight, it can lead to obesity and all sorts of health issues.
Worried that you might be at risk of becoming overweight or obese? Here are some signs to look out for:
Obesity in your family
Are your parents or grandparents obese? If so, you have a greater chance of
becoming obese yourself.
Family history of early cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, high
blood pressure or high cholesterol
These are some common health risks associated with obesity. If they can be found
within your family, you’re at risk.
Early warning risk factors for cardiac disease or type 2 diabetes
These can include higher blood pressure, quickened heart rate, glucose intolerance,
and higher insulin levels that average. Signs of any of these risk factors are
an indication of possible obesity.
Bone trouble
Weight stress in your lower limbs, bowed legs, and a particular hip disorder
known as slipped capital femoral epiphysis -- which can occur during an early
adolescent growth spurt -- can all be early warning signs for obesity.
Social issues
Low self-esteem, depression and poor self-image have all been linked with obesity.
Being tall
More often than not, children with obesity are taller than their peers. This
doesn’t mean that if you're tall, you’ll be obese, but it's something
to keep in mind.
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This is a simple way of saying that you watch too much TV, spend too much time on the computer and you don't get enough exercise. Couch potatoes are definitely at risk of becoming obese.
These symptoms are warning signs. If you see yourself in any of them, don't panic. Just be aware.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition, and is solely for informational purposes. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 or your local equivalent for all medical emergencies.
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Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this How Stuff Works article:
Neilsen, David. "How Does Childhood Obesity Work?." 01 May 2007. HowStuffWorks.com. <http://health.howstuffworks.com/childhood-obesity.htm> 17 May 2008.
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