A new study published in the most recent issue of Pediatrics suggests that obesity rates among young children are on the decline.
The study examined what researchers called the “caloric gap,” which estimates how many calories children must eliminate from their daily diet to bring obesity rates down to pre-epidemic levels. Researchers suggest that among children aged 2 to 5 years, the gap is down to 30 kcal a day. That’s much lower than their older counterparts, as kids aged 6 to 11 need to cut 150 kcal a day to get their obesity rate under control, while those aged 12 to 19 need to cut 180 kcal a day.
The authors also referenced two recent publications from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and the Pediatric Nutrition Surveillance System (PedNSS) which found a reduction in obesity rates among preschool aged children. The NHANES survey found a 5.5 percent drop in obesity rates among 2- to 5-year-olds, and the PedNSS survey found a “significant” decline in preschool obesity prevalence in 18 states.
“I continue to be encouraged,” said Sarah E. Barlow, MD, MPH, in an interview with Medscape about the surveys. “I have my fingers crossed that we’ll continue to see this with the next round of NHANES results.”
Cut Fast Food and Soda
One way to reduce daily caloric intake is to cut down on soda and fast food consumption. Authors of the study published in Pediatrics said parents have done a better job of seeking out healthier meals for their children.
“If current trends in decreased fast food and sugar drink consumption continue, and as the current cohort of 2- to 5-year-old children ages, we might anticipate further declines in the prevalence of childhood obesity. However, the greater declines observed in white children compared with other ethnic groups emphasize that intensified efforts to identify and implement effective strategies to address ethnic disparities are essential.”
The authors also said that healthier school lunch options have helped reduce waistlines.
Dr. Silverman comments
There’s little reason for children these young to be washing down Big Macs with Pepsi products, so it’s encouraging that parents are taking the time to prepare healthier meals for their kids. Healthy decisions start in the grocery aisles, so don’t just walk into a grocery store and start throwing things in your cart. Look up low calories recipes, make a healthy meal plan and do your best to stick to it!
Related source: Medscape
