Childhood obesity has emerged as a serious and rapidly growing health concern, significantly affecting the physical and mental development of children. According to senior physician Dr. Rajan Punj of Dr. Punj’s Hospital (A Unit of EMC Hospitals), changing lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, and a lack of physical activity are the primary reasons behind the rising incidence of obesity among children. In today’s fast-paced world, children are increasingly drawn toward processed foods and digital screens, putting their overall health at risk.
Dr. Rajan Punj explained that processed foods such as fast food, packaged snacks, chips, burgers, pizza, instant noodles, and sugary soft drinks contain excessive amounts of sugar, salt, trans fats, and harmful chemicals. These foods lead to the accumulation of extra calories in the body, promoting weight gain in children. Long-term consumption of such foods increases the risk of lifestyle-related diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and other chronic conditions at a very young age.
He further highlighted that excessive screen habits are another major contributor to childhood obesity. Spending long hours on mobile phones, television, tablets, and video games drastically reduces children’s physical activity. This not only results in weight gain but also adversely affects eyesight, sleep patterns, and mental well-being. The habit of consuming junk food while using screens further aggravates the problem.
Dr. Punj emphasized that childhood obesity is not just a physical issue; it also has a profound impact on children’s confidence and mental health. Obese children often suffer from low self-esteem, stress, and depression, which can negatively affect their academic performance and social life. If not addressed at the right time, this condition can lead to serious and complex health problems later in life.
Appealing to parents, Dr. Rajan Punj stressed the importance of teaching children healthy habits and encouraging an active lifestyle from an early age. Parents should include fresh fruits, green vegetables, whole grains, and nutritious home-cooked meals in their children’s diets. At the same time, children should be motivated to participate daily in sports, yoga, or any form of physical activity, while screen time should be strictly limited.
Dr. Punj’s Hospital (A Unit of EMC Hospitals) continues to run awareness initiatives aimed at ensuring better health and a brighter future for children. Concluding his message, Dr. Rajan Punj said, “A healthy childhood is the foundation of a strong, healthy, and successful future.
About the Author
