Childhood obesity is becoming an increasingly serious problem in the modern world, and its consequences have a devastating impact on the health of our future generation. Detailed studies show that excess weight in childhood not only leads to aesthetic issues but also becomes a major risk factor for the development of serious chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and hypertension. 1
Research indicates that childhood obesity jeopardises health in adulthood. Adipocyte hypertrophy, or enlargement of fat cells, plays a key role in this process. Increased adipose tissue leads to the production of inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and interleukins, which, in turn, contribute to the development of insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, and other chronic diseases. 1,2
The biological mechanisms underlying childhood obesity are often linked to genetics and the environment. Genes regulating metabolism and predisposition to fat accumulation may predispose to obesity. Additionally, diet, lifestyle, and other external factors can significantly influence the development of this condition. 3
At the molecular level, hormonal imbalance, such as insulin, leptin, and adiponectin, is evident. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating appetite, metabolism, and energy distribution in the body. Disruption of their functions can lead to increased appetite, decreased satiety, and fat accumulation. 4
Myo-inositol during pregnancy emerges as a promising method to reduce the risk of obesity in children. Studies show that expectant mothers incorporating myo-inositol into their prenatal regimen may provide protective benefits to their children. Scientific data indicate a link between maternal myo-inositol intake and a reduced likelihood of obesity in children. This underscores the potential value of inositol as a preventive measure against obesity-related issues later in life. Further investigation of the mechanisms underlying this connection is needed for a better understanding of the impact of myo-inositol intake on children's long-term health outcomes. 5
Childhood obesity is not just a matter of appearance or social adaptation. It is a serious condition that jeopardises the health and well-being of children and future adults. Early intervention and prevention can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases and improve the quality of life for our society as a whole.
References:
1. Reinehr, T., & Wabitsch, M. (2011). Childhood obesity. Current opinion in lipidology, 22(1), 21–25. https://doi.org/10.1097/MOL.0b013e32833f9c37
2. Franks, P. W., Hanson, R. L., Knowler, W. C., Sievers, M. L., Bennett, P. H., & Looker, H. C. (2010). Childhood obesity, other cardiovascular risk factors, and premature death. The New England journal of medicine, 362(6), 485–493. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa0904130
3. Blüher M. (2009). Adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity. Experimental and clinical endocrinology & diabetes : official journal, German Society of Endocrinology [and] German Diabetes Association, 117(6), 241–250. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0029-1192044
4. Rosen, E. D., & Spiegelman, B. M. (2014). What we talk about when we talk about fat. Cell, 156(1-2), 20–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2013.12.012
5. Lyons-Reid, J., Derraik, J.G.B., Kenealy, T. et al.Impact of preconception and antenatal supplementation with myo-inositol, probiotics, and micronutrients on offspring BMI and weight gain over the first 2 years. BMC Med 22, 39 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-024-03246-w
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