The latest national survey from 2023 has revealed a surprising and alarming statistic: Italy, the home of the Mediterranean diet and healthy living, has become the European country with the highest number of sedentary children. This paradox is further highlighted by the unfortunate fact that Italy ranks second, just behind Spain, in terms of childhood obesity. Our country, often seen as a symbol of well-being, faces a generational health crisis linked to lifestyle habits.
Changing dietary and exercise habits: a risky trend
The survey, which examined over 46,000 children, paints a much bleaker picture of Italian society than one might expect. A staggering 19% of children are overweight, while 9.8% are obese. Among Mediterranean nations, Italy now holds one of the worst positions regarding the health of its younger generation.
The country’s socio-economic conditions play a significant role in shaping this situation, as not all families have equal access to a healthy lifestyle. Southern regions, already economically disadvantaged, report the highest rates of childhood obesity, reinforcing the direct link between economic hardship and health.
One of the most striking findings for researchers was the skewed perception many mothers have of their children’s weight. Their mothers perceive a shocking 45% of overweight or obese children as being of normal or even underweight. Additionally, 59.6% of mothers with sedentary children believe their child engages in adequate physical activity, and 73% of mothers with overweight or obese children believe that their child’s food intake is not excessive. This distorted view may be a crucial factor in understanding the issue, highlighting the need for economic intervention and educational and cultural changes.
Alberto Mantovani, Professor Emeritus at Humanitas University and Scientific Director of the IRCCS Istituto Clinico Humanitas, commented on the issue: “Our lifestyle has a significant impact on our immune system, and I must say I am extremely concerned because our country currently ranks second only to Spain in the number of overweight children, and we hold the record for inactive children who don’t engage in physical activity.”
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