Are chubby babies at risk for later overweight and obesity? How can concerned parents prevent their infants from becoming overweight children and adults?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answer: Most chubby babies thin out during toddlerhood and early childhood, as weight gain slows and they become more active. Infants and toddlers can eat nutritious foods freely without risk of becoming overweight. But recent evidence does indicate a strengthening relationship between rapid weight gain in infancy and later obesity. The trend may be due to the rise in overweight and obesity among adults, who promote unhealthy eating habits in their young children.
One way concerned parents can prevent their infants from becoming overweight children and adults is to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months, which is associated with slower weight gain over the first year, leaner body build through early childhood, and 10 to 20 percent reduced obesity risk in later life. Another strategy is to avoid giving babies foods loaded with sugar, salt, and saturated fats. Once toddlers learn to walk, climb, and run, parents can also provide plenty of opportunities for energetic play. Finally, because research shows a correlation between excessive television viewing and overweight in older children, parents should limit the time very young children spend in front of the TV.