Researchers report that being too heavy or too light at birth and rapidly gaining weight as a child could lead to a life of obesity.
Studies indicate babies with a high birth weight have a higher risk of suffering from obesity later in life. Infants who do not weigh much at birth but who catch up rapidly could also be more likely to grow into obese adults.
Gaining weight before height - or adiposity rebound - and how fat is deposited on the body during adolescence are also thought to have an impact on the risk of adult obesity and weight-related illnesses like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
These findings come at a time when the current childhood obesity epidemic reaches new heights. Canadian childhood obesity currently ranks fourth in the world. The obesity crisis has been attributed to lack of exercise, changing diets and larger portion sizes.
Health experts warn childhood obesity is such a critical public health issue, it could possibly reverse gains made over the last 50 years in reducing heart disease and death.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.