Obese Kids At Higher Risk Of Developing Diabetes: Causes, Signs And Precautions – News18

The interweaving relationship between obesity and diabetes poses a major concern, especially for children. Obesity is a significant risk factor for the development of type 2 diabetes in children due to excess fatty tissue making the body’s cells less receptive to insulin.

Look at the causes, early warning signs and precautions to take to protect our kids from developing Type 2 diabetes:

Causes

Unhealthy Diet

A high-calorie diet with no fibre and nutrition such as fast food is one of the major causes of obesity in kids these days.

Less Exercises

Nowadays kids are engaged in playing video games rather than engaging in physical activities on the ground which largely affects their health.

Inadequate Sleep

Sleep is highly associated with weight in children, and not getting sleep might raise the risk of obesity.

Stress

High levels of stress in kids, including personal or parental could lead to a higher risk of obesity.

More Screen Time

Spending a lot of time watching TV, playing computer games or using other devices might develop obesity as it limits the time available for physical activity.

Genetics

In many cases, it has been reported that the kid is at higher risk of obesity if one of the parents is obese.

Medications

Certain medications, such as steroids and some antidepressants, can lead to obesity.

Early Signs of Diabetes:

Increased Thirst

The kid might feel thirsty more often or finish their drink more quickly.

Frequent Urination

The Kid might urinate more than normal.

Sleepiness

Excessive tiredness or sleepiness could be a sign of developing type 2 diabetes in children.

Increased Hunger

Children with Type 2 diabetes might feel hungry all the time. This is because their bodies don’t have enough insulin to fuel their cells.

Disturbed Sleep

Not getting proper sleep during the night could be an early sign of developing diabetes in kids.

Nausea

Nausea and vomiting are one of the most common signs of diabetes in children.

Precautions:

Healthy diet

A healthy diet is the secret to good health and longevity. Offer food to your kids high in protein, calcium, and other nutrients. Focus on green vegetables, pulses, dairy products and whole grains.

Physical exercise

Motivate your kids to engage in more physical activities such as sports, dance, gymnastics or something else that will help them boost their physical health.

Enough Sleep

Set a proper sleeping schedule for your kid. The ideal amount of sleep for most people is 7 to 8 hours.

See a health expert

Seek medical assistance from a health expert.

Limit Screen Time

Limit your kids from spending a long time on TV, Mobile, or Computer.

Obesity in children may lead to adult metabolic syndrome, which includes indications and symptoms of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, and increased insulin.