Interventions for the prevention and management of childhood obesity

Energy balance occurs when energy intake (food intake) equals energy expenditure. Energy intake in excess of energy expenditure results in weight gain. Total energy expenditure consists of three components: resting metabolic rate (60-70 per cent), the thermic effect of food (15-20 per cent) and the energy expended in physical activity (20-25 per cent). Physical activity is the component most susceptible to change. Therefore, interventions aimed at preventing childhood obesity should focus on factors that influence food intake and physical activity.