The growing epidemic of obese children is as much a disease as any other medical condition. This is a global phenomenon and South Africa is experiencing the same problem with overweight and obese children as other developing countries. The recent rise in childhood obesity can be attributed to more South Africans now living an urban lifestyle – high calorie and fatty foods combined with a sedentary lifestyle.

Before the age of 4 years, some children may be ‘plump’ and this does not concern many parents. This is sometimes referred to as baby fat but the reality is that an obese toddler is already a sign of a potential problem.
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