- Unhealthy weight at this age is linked to many serious risk factors later in life, says Paulina Nowicka, one of the researchers behind the study.
The study, which according to the researchers is the most comprehensive of its kind, is based on unique data.
The researchers have compared data from around 200,000 4-year-olds (taken at the so-called 4-year check-up at the children's center) in 2020 compared to the same age group in 2018. The increase in the prevalence of obesity in general is around 17 percent, and on average the morbidly obese , obesity increased by over 30 percent.
Bigger increase in the north
The result is seen as striking.
In addition, there are clear regional differences.
The increase in overweight 4-year-olds is greater in the northern parts of the country.
Girls' obesity has also increased more than boys' according to the study.
Parents can do a lot to reduce the risk of unhealthy weight in their children, says Paulina Nowicka.
What can you do if you are worried about a child's weight?
- Children need to eat regularly and with variety.
Three main dishes and two snacks.
Keep in mind that it is water as a drink in the first place and milk in others.
- Consider screen time, limit it for young children who need a lot of physical activity.
Now that the weather is getting better – be outside as much as possible, says Paulina Nowicka.
Hear researcher Paulina Nowicka in the clip above.