Child Obesity Increased During Covid-19

A new study found that child obesity increased significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns. It is one of the greatest changes in youths between 5 years old and 11 years old, as their body mass index increased by 36.2% to 45.6%.

The fear that children would lack certain physical activities when following classes at home appear to have been correct.

Brian Jessen, the lead author on the May study and a pediatrician, said, “This isn’t just baby fat that’s going to go away. That’s why I think this is so alarming.” 

This excessive weight gain is cause for great concern as obesity comes with many health side effects, especially for children so young who are still in the process of growing.

This weight gain in kids of the ages of 5 to 11 might also be explained by a lack of meal stability. If they spend all day at home, they may be eating more meals or less healthy ones, as well as snacks throughout the day.

This study has helped to show the importance of school and a schedule-based life for children, where they are supplied with nourishing meals and given multiple forms of physical activity. 

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