Study finds out how to counter child obesity
| Apr 10, 2019, 17:10 IST
Child obesity is getting rampant every passing day. Of course, mothers all over are increasingly worried about its effects. Thanks to a new study, new mothers have a list of dos and don ts they can follow to combat this issue. Amongst the many things suggested, the study said that consuming sugary beverages during pregnancy can be considered a risk and should be avoided to combat childhood obesity.
Published in the Journal, Academic Pediatrics, the study’s lead author said, “Emerging evidence suggests that regular consumption of sugary beverages, either by the mother during pregnancy or by the child before age two, may increase a child’s risk of obesity later in childhood,”
According to other recent studies, obesity in young children is growing manifold between the ages of 2 to 5 years. Woo goes on to explain saying, “We were surprised at how many parents and infants were regularly consuming drinks with added sugar. In order to influence behavior, we needed a better understanding of the factors that influence parents’ attitudes,”
For the purpose of the study, the research team conducted in-depth interviews with 25 of families who enrolled. They were shown material from public health campaigns and other interventions (written and visual) regarding sugar content and risk associated. Their responses were noted.
After the interviews, the team found out that many families didn’t know which beverages were healthy and were surprised to know when they were told about the high sugar content of many packaged juices and beverages.
She concluded by saying that although the study was small, the findings can be of great help to young mothers and pregnant women. Hopefully, it will be able to communicate about the mixed messages to families across all income status.
Published in the Journal, Academic Pediatrics, the study’s lead author said, “Emerging evidence suggests that regular consumption of sugary beverages, either by the mother during pregnancy or by the child before age two, may increase a child’s risk of obesity later in childhood,”
According to other recent studies, obesity in young children is growing manifold between the ages of 2 to 5 years. Woo goes on to explain saying, “We were surprised at how many parents and infants were regularly consuming drinks with added sugar. In order to influence behavior, we needed a better understanding of the factors that influence parents’ attitudes,”
For the purpose of the study, the research team conducted in-depth interviews with 25 of families who enrolled. They were shown material from public health campaigns and other interventions (written and visual) regarding sugar content and risk associated. Their responses were noted.
After the interviews, the team found out that many families didn’t know which beverages were healthy and were surprised to know when they were told about the high sugar content of many packaged juices and beverages.
She concluded by saying that although the study was small, the findings can be of great help to young mothers and pregnant women. Hopefully, it will be able to communicate about the mixed messages to families across all income status.