Author: Tamar Obgaidze, Pediatrician, PhD in Medicine
In recent decades, childhood obesity has become a serious problem with statistics worsening year by year.
Excess weight is not just a result of poor dietary habits or overeating. This problem is influenced by other contributing factors as well, among which, of course, the genetic factor is significant. It is well known that the risk of developing obesity is particularly high in children whose parents are overweight.
But should we blame everything on genetics, or are there other causes for childhood obesity? Is our DNA our destiny when it comes to obesity?
Yes, genetics are important, but there are environmental conditions that can increase the risk of obesity. The formation of poor eating habits at an early age—resulting in improper nutrition and excessive calorie intake—along with increased screen time, decreased physical activity, sleep disturbances, and the health of the pregnant mother are all significant epigenetic factors that can affect a child’s health and increase the risk of developing obesity.
The first 1,000 days of life are particularly critical, starting from the moment of conception and continuing through the first two years. During this period, through healthy nutrition, proper care, the establishment of good eating habits, and the effective management of illnesses—first for the pregnant woman and subsequently for the newborn and young child—we can, in a sense, “program” a child’s health and metabolism. In short, while our DNA provides the potential, environmental factors determine how we utilize those opportunities.
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