"We found that an adolescent or youth who is more stressed -- caused by such things as having poor grades, mental health problems, aggressive behaviors, or doing more drugs and alcohol -- is more likely to be overweight or obese," said Brenda Lohman, professor of human development and family studies at Iowa State University.
The five stress factors used were academic problems, consumption of drugs and alcohol, depression or mental health issues, aggression, and lack of future orientation. The study, which involved children ages 10 to 15 years old, also found that their mothers' stress could be a contributing factor to their being overweight.
Adolescent overweight has been associated with a wide range of serious health problems (including an increased risk of premature death) both during one's younger years and into adulthood.
This study appeared in the Journal of Adolescent Health.
Labels: causes of childhood obesity, overweight children, stress
Posted By: Aspen/CRC
