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06-05-2024 | Obesity | REVIEW

Beyond Obesity and Overweight: The Clinical Assessment and Treatment of Excess Body Fat in Children

Part 1 — Insulin Resistance as the Root Cause of Pediatric Obesity

Authors: Mark Cucuzzella, James Bailes, Jenny Favret, Nina Paddu, Anna Beth Bradley

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Pediatric obesity and comorbidities related to insulin resistance continue to be a growing public health crisis. If lifestyle measures are unsuccessful, pharmacological and surgical interventions are offered. In this paper, we describe the driving force of the obesity crisis: hyperinsulinemia and the development of insulin resistance. We give historical background of key policy issues which have contributed to this pandemic as well as the physiologic mechanisms of insulin resistance. The prevalence of obesity will continue to rise unless the root cause of hyperinsulinemia is addressed.

Recent Findings

Current research on insulin resistance demonstrates that a decreased consumption of carbohydrates is an effective first-line dietary intervention for the treatment of obesity and related metabolic diseases. Evidence shows it is safe and beneficial.

Summary

A low-carbohydrate eating pattern can be helpful to address pediatric obesity. However, there must be policy guardrails in place to ensure that this is a sustainable and viable option for children and their families. There must be a change in the nutritional environment to help individuals battle the chronic disease of obesity.

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Title: Beyond Obesity and Overweight: The Clinical Assessment and Treatment of Excess Body Fat in Children
Part 1 — Insulin Resistance as the Root Cause of Pediatric Obesity
Authors: Mark Cucuzzella
James Bailes
Jenny Favret
Nina Paddu
Anna Beth Bradley
Publication date: 06-05-2024
Publisher: Springer US
Keywords: Obesity
Obesity
Insulins
Insulins
Pediatric Obesity
Public Health
Published in: Current Obesity Reports
Electronic ISSN: 2162-4968
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13679-024-00565-0

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