For children and teenagers, carrying extra weight can be hard on both the body and the mind. Many live with self-doubt, and sometimes with shame or teasing from classmates. Some are judged by adults, or even by healthcare staff. It is common for young people to blame themselves, and to feel they have to cope on their own. But no child should have to face this alone, and asking for help is a positive first step.
How obesity develops in children and adolescents
Young people are not to blame for their weight. Genes play a large part. Twin studies suggest that genetics account for a large share of the differences in body weight in childhood, with estimates ranging from around 50% to 90%, and this tendency can begin very early in life. Some of the risk is set before birth: babies who gain excessive weight in the womb, or who are not breastfed, or breastfed only for a short time, appear to have a higher risk later on. The home environment matters too. Eating habits are learned, and limited chances to be active shape a child’s weight over time.
Modern life adds to the risk. A lot of the food aimed at children is highly processed and high in sugar, salt or fat. When this is combined with larger portions, weight gain becomes more likely. Low levels of physical activity are another major factor. Many children today have fewer safe or affordable places to play and take part in sport.
A family’s circumstances also play a role. Children growing up in disadvantaged households are at greater risk. Emotions can feed into it as well: grief, a parent’s divorce, loneliness, or feeling unloved can all lead to comfort eating. In some cases, an underlying illness or certain medicines can also cause weight gain.
Many young people do not realise they have obesity
Obesity is not always easy to spot. Many young people, and their parents, do not realise that a weight has reached the point where it affects health. Some parents hope their child will simply grow out of it, but weight that is not addressed can carry real risks over time. Most young people do want to lose weight, though some find it hard to raise the subject at home and look for answers on social media instead. Parents often are not sure how to help either, and many doctors have had little specialist training in childhood obesity. The earlier a young person gets the right support, the better.
Health effects of obesity in childhood
Extra weight can affect health even during the teenage years. It is linked to raised blood pressure, fatty liver, and problems with blood sugar. If obesity continues into adulthood, the risk of longer-term conditions goes up, including some cancers, joint problems, and metabolic disease. The emotional impact matters too. Young people carrying a lot of extra weight have around a 70% chance of still being affected by obesity as adults. The encouraging part is that even a modest change helps: losing 5% to 10% of body weight can improve day-to-day wellbeing and lower future health risks.
How obesity is treated in children and adolescents
Helping a young person manage their weight takes time and support. The usual starting point is a change to eating habits, more activity, and help with the emotional side of eating. These take patience, and results vary from person to person. Weight loss surgery is very rarely used for young people, and only in exceptional cases where strict medical criteria are met. What helps most is early support, clear guidance from the right professionals, and follow-up over the long term. With the right help, young people can build healthier habits and lower their risk of problems later in life.
If you are worried about your child’s weight, a good first step is to speak to your GP or a registered dietitian. They can offer advice without judgement and point you towards the right support.
