Childhood obesity and underweight with Dr. Iman El-Gendy

Childhood obesity and thinness are among the most common health problems in recent years due to their direct impact on a child’s physical, mental, and emotional development. Dr. Eman El Gendy emphasizes that proper and balanced nutrition during the early years of life is the key factor in preventing these conditions and ensuring healthy and balanced growth for children.

Causes of Childhood Obesity

Dr. Eman El Gendy explains that the main causes of childhood obesity include:

• Excessive intake of fatty and sugary foods.

• Lack of physical activity and prolonged screen time.

• Genetic factors and hormonal imbalances.

• Psychological stress and emotional eating behaviors.

She stresses that obesity in children is not just a matter of extra weight — it is a condition that requires a comprehensive evaluation of eating habits and hormonal factors to identify the root cause and create a suitable treatment plan.

Causes of Childhood Thinness

Dr. Eman El Gendy points out that extreme thinness in children may result from:

• Poor appetite or digestive disorders.

• Deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals.

• Chronic diseases or malabsorption issues.

• An unbalanced or insufficient diet for the child’s growth needs.

She warns that ignoring thinness in children may lead to growth delays, weak immunity, and poor concentration or academic performance.

Importance of Nutritional Evaluation and Treatment Programs

Dr. Eman El Gendy emphasizes the importance of accurate assessment before starting any treatment plan by measuring growth indicators (height, weight, and BMI) and comparing them with the normal ranges for the child’s age.
She notes that a therapeutic nutrition plan must be customized for each child according to their health condition and activity level.

Dr. Eman El Gendy’s Tips for Child Nutrition

• Provide small, frequent meals rich in essential nutrients.

• Avoid fast food and carbonated drinks.

• Encourage daily physical activity.

• Ensure the child eats breakfast every day to boost focus and energy.

• Schedule regular follow-ups with a pediatric nutrition specialist.

Psychological and Behavioral Support in Obesity and Thinness Cases

Dr. Eman El Gendy affirms that treatment is not limited to food alone; it also involves modifying unhealthy eating behaviors and addressing the psychological factors that affect appetite and body image.
She explains that family support and positive encouragement are among the most crucial elements for successful treatment.

Childhood obesity and thinness are conditions that require professional medical care and structured clinical nutrition to ensure proper growth and overall health.
Dr. Eman El Gendy stresses that early intervention and regular follow-ups are the keys to correcting weight issues and maintaining a healthy balance between physical and mental development throughout childhood.