Maternal depression and child obesity: a close link to be aware of

The health of children is closely linked to the emotional state and lifestyle of their parents. American researchers have concluded that children of women suffering from depression are often prone to the problem of overweight. Depression, they believe, affects the mother's lifestyle, affecting the children's diet and activity.

Depression takes away women's interest in cooking healthy meals, leading to poor nutrition in children. Instead of healthy breakfasts, children prefer to snack on chips and chocolate, and lunches are often eaten at fast food outlets. This, coupled with lack of activity, is a shortcut to the problem of obesity in children.

The fact of changing eating habits among Ukrainian children is becoming increasingly important. Fast food outlets are attracting school children and this is having a negative impact on their eating habits.

The study claims that depression in women leads to a decrease in the natural sense of responsibility for taking care of children's health. This affects the psychological state of children, making them feel unwanted. Some children try to cope through eating, while others may become aggressive or rebellious.

Especially vulnerable to depression are unemployed or under-educated women, experts emphasize. This shows that social and economic aspects also play a role in shaping the psychological well-being of families and the health of children.