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DIET - NUTRITION

        This is a major area of focus for both causation and treatment intervention. Since the late 1970’s, the average increase of calories per day per child is 120 calories a day. This alone accounts for a significant risk of weight gain. This has resulted from several factors including an increased amount of fatty foods, increased amounts of processed foods, and increased amounts of refined sugars including fructose sweetened drinks. Reportedly, for every sugar sweetened beverage (juice box or soda) a child has in his/her daily intake increases the risk of childhood obesity more than 50%. Also, children who skip breakfast have a higher chance of being overweight.
        In comparing children at risk for obesity, it appears that the overall of fruits, vegetables and whole grains are significantly lower in the high risk group. These foods are replaced by processed foods, and foods high in sugar and fructose. Likewise, this diet may reduce the amounts of key nutrients and vitamins that will augment metabolism and normal weight. It has been shown in several studies that as individuals, especially in the US, we eat less at home than ever. This has a role also in causing an increase in childhood obesity. When eating away from home, the foods typically are not of a variety that may be health conscious, and secondly, portion sizes are usually much larger with greater caloric intake. Studies also have supported that children who serve their own portions have a lower risk of weight gain.
        Vitamins that may have an impact on metabolism include several. These are known cofactors to several enzymes that facilitate utilization of calories and energy. Of these, B complex vitamins, Vitamin E and Vitamin C are the most important. Vitamin B6 is known to facilitate the conversion of carbohydrates to glucose and may stimulate metabolic rate. The anti-oxidant vitamins assist in removing metabolic waste products, and also facilitate efficient metabolism and reduce tissue injury. Minerals that also are key as catalysts for metabolism include calcium and magnesium. These micronutrients are needed for enzymes to function properly.
        The best measures that can be promoted are to encourage whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits, and supplement children with needed vitamin and mineral supplements to allow normal growth and metabolism. Planning meals both at home and away is very important as is portion size. It has been noted in research investigations that families that eat meals together at home every evening have a much lower risk of childhood obesity. It boils down in part to good healthy nutrition. Fructose, processed foods, high sugar and fat content foods, etc. all play a huge role in convenience in our society, but our children are paying the price. If trends do not change, it is inevitable that we as a society will be paying a price as well for a burden of increase healthcare costs.