Effects of obesity on kids are worse than doctors and researchers thought

When it comes to childhood obesity, most people know that this condition can have negative health implications that can affect a kid later on in life. However, few parents know the extent to which this is true.

But, a recent study from the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom proved that obesity in kids needs to be taken seriously as it can not only dramatically increase the chances of heart disease and cholesterol, but it may also lead to higher insulin levels, which is a risk factor associated with diabetes.

''Parents and health policymakers need to understand that obesity in childhood affects much more than appearance,'' says a scientist who worked on the study, Claire Friedemann, in a statement. ''Obesity affects a child’s health and puts them on a path for developing many health issues as they get older.''

The study involved approximately 50,000 child participants and the conclusion that researchers came to was scary. The heavier kids had a 30 to 40 percent higher risk for heart disease than girls and boys who were of an average weight.

According to the BBC, there are 43 million overweight kids around the globe. Many doctors, scientists and nutrition experts, like Nancy Copperman, believe that if obesity is not addressed quickly and effectively, there is going to be a sharp rise in the number of childhood Type 2 Diabetes that is diagnosed.

If you are a parent and have a son or daughter that is obese, talk to your doctor about ways that you can help him or her get on the path to a healthier life. Research has shown that it only takes 20 to 30 minutes of daily activity, like running around in a park or skipping rope, to reduce body fat.