1 in 10 Thai kids clinically obese, will they be the fattest generation yet?

Child obesity has become a heavy problem in Thailand with one in 10 Thai kids clinically obese says the Department of Health (DOH).

A report by the health department revealed that about 10% of Thai children are fat. Not only are they clinically obese, but the DOH also reckons that Thai kids will become even fatter if the nation’s parents and schools do not prioritize nutritional awareness among youngsters.

DOH chief Dr Suwannachai Wattanayingcharoenchai emphasized the crucial role parents must play in cultivating a healthier environment, reported Bangkok Post.

Dr Suwannachai reckons that children are being exposed to an excess of unhealthy food items that contain high levels of fat, sugar, and salt.

Health Data Centre data from the ministry reveals that 9.1% of children aged 0-5 are overweight, with the proportion increasing to 13.4% among 6-14-year-olds and 13.2% among 15-18-year-olds.

The World Obesity Federation has projected that childhood obesity rates will double between 2020 and 2035. These results align with another health department report on children’s diets, which disclosed that a third of children consume sugary snacks and drinks every day, and nearly 30% have free reign to select their meals based solely on personal preferences.

Dr Suwannachai said…

“As World Obesity Day was on March 4 and we would like parents to select healthy food for their children. Children often make bad choices when left to choose what to eat which is only made worse by the marketing strategies of confectionary manufacturers.

“Parents and schools should teach them how to select good food and what the consequences to their health a poor diet can pose.

“They should eat sweets no more than twice a week, a serving of fish at least once a week, a maximum of three eggs a week, as well as more calcium-rich foods such as sardines, beans and lentils.

“Fresh fruit and vegetables are recommended every day, as is exercise to strengthen muscles and bones.”