Risk Factors For Obesity

Low Fat Risks

• slim genes from parents or grandparents
• naturally slim body build
• a high metabolism (fat burner)
• watches little TV
• lean eating habits

High Fat Risks

• fat genes in family
• stocky body build
• low metabolism (fat storer)
• sedentary temperament and lifestyle
• watches a lot of TV
• fat eating habits

In counseling parents about their children's weight issues, that is, whether or not they need to worry about how much guidance a child needs, I first look at the parents themselves, second at the child, and third at the eating and lifestyle habits of the family. I look at the growth chart and the scale last. Children who are in the low-risk category don't need much fat-control counseling. Families in the high-risk category need a high level of early intervention, which can prevent obesity in childhood. Children and adults do not inherit obesity, they simply inherit the tendency. How they learn to eat and live with this tendency determines whether they will grow up to be fat or lean.