Study: These Are the Three Cities with the Fattest Children in Israel
Childhood obesity has become an epidemic in Israel, with half a million children affected. What can be done and which cities have the highest rates?
(Illustrative photo: Shutterstock)A recent study conducted by Maccabi Healthcare Services aimed to investigate obesity rates among Israeli children based on their city of residence. Researchers analyzed children from major cities in Israel using data from the organization's computerized database, focusing on the Body Mass Index (BMI) of children aged 4-10. The children were categorized into three groups: normal weight, overweight, and underweight.
The findings leave no room for doubt: child obesity is becoming an epidemic, and the situation in Israel is severe, with half a million children overweight.
It's crucial to understand the severe implications of obesity on children: overweight children often suffer persistent headaches, sleep apnea affecting their alertness and concentration in school, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and muscle and joint pain. Beyond the health risks, obesity also has social consequences: overweight children may face peer bullying and low self-esteem.
The study reveals that certain cities are more affected, with Be'er Sheva, Netanya, and Bat Yam having the highest percentages of overweight children (25.4%, 25%, 24.9%). Holon follows with 23.7%. The list concludes with Tel Aviv, Kfar Saba, and Jerusalem (19.6%, 18.7%, 20.4%).
Limor Tal-Poni, a pediatric dietician and nutrition manager in Kfar Saba district, explains to 'Yedioth Ahronoth' their choice to focus on children aged 4-10. "We chose to study this age group because of the potential for changing dietary and lifestyle habits," she says. "It's essential to understand that an overweight child at ages 5-6 has a 40% chance of becoming an overweight adult. That's why it's crucial to make changes in these formative years to prevent long-term obesity or overweight issues."
Tal-Poni points out the two main problems leading to obesity: our children are growing up in environments filled with unhealthy food, like junk food, snacks, and sugary drinks. Additionally, children lack physical activity, spending more time in front of the TV and computer and engaging in less sports.
The dietician further explains the link between obesity and socioeconomic status: "We've found that in more affluent areas like Herzliya and Kfar Saba, there are fewer overweight children. Obesity correlates with lower socioeconomic status."
Tal-Poni adds that addressing overweight children involves changes in family eating habits. "Emphasize not weight but encouraging physical activity. It's important to undergo a healthy, sometimes lengthy process where the entire family learns to eat correctly and healthily," she says.
