Childhood obesity: an ecological perspective

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34780713/

This article addresses how the environment significantly influences the childhood obesity epidemic, highlighting that it is not only about poor eating habits or a sedentary lifestyle, but also less visible factors such as air pollution, exposure to chemicals, and changes in the gut microbiota.

Most importantly, these environmental factors can alter key metabolic processes from very early stages of life, such as the first thousand days, affecting genes related to fat storage, energy expenditure, and appetite regulation. The article concludes that public policies must include a comprehensive approach that considers the environment to effectively prevent and treat childhood obesity.