Obesity and Fatty Liver in Children

The prevalence of obesity, which is 30 percent in Turkey, is increasing at an alarming level every day. Today, habits such as high-calorie and fast-food diets, fast eating a sedentary lifestyle, and eating before going to bed at night invite unbalanced nutrition and therefore obesity. Consumption of large amounts of sugary, fatty and ready-made foods, especially by children, triggers obesity. At Liv Hospital Ulus Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic, the causes of childhood obesity are investigated and personalized treatment planning is made.

What are the causes of obesity?

The disproportion between the energy entering the human body and the amount of energy spent by the person in his daily activities is the main cause of obesity. If the energy entering the body cannot be burned sufficiently, it is stored as fat. This brings with it obesity. In parallel, a sedentary lifestyle, urbanization, and consumption of foods containing high amounts of calories also pave the way for obesity.

What Health Problems Does It Cause?

Obesity; It causes many health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, skeletal system problems, types of cancer, digestive system diseases, joint disorders, psychological problems, asthma and respiratory disorders.

How to Prevent?

Children of obese parents also have a high risk of becoming obese. Genetic factors play a big role in obesity. It is necessary to start the fight against obesity from childhood. Importance should be given to balanced nutrition of babies; As the child transitions from breastfeeding to complementary foods, he/she should be fed vegetables, fruits and healthy grains: ready-made foods should be kept away.

What are the Risk Factors?

• Age
• Gender
• Education level
• Sociocultural factors
• Income status
• Genetic factors
• Psychological problems
• Smoking-alcohol use
• Medicines containing cortisone