What is a common risk factor for childhood obesity?

Childhood obesity is a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors, with lifestyle choices playing a significant role. The correct answer highlights the impact of a sedentary lifestyle combined with poor dietary habits as common risk factors for obesity in children.

A sedentary lifestyle refers to a pattern of low physical activity, which is prevalent in many children due to increased screen time from televisions, computers, and mobile devices. When children are less active, they expend fewer calories, which may lead to weight gain if their caloric intake exceeds the calories they burn.

In addition to inactivity, poor dietary habits, such as excessive consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods (like sugary snacks and beverages, fast foods, and processed items), further exacerbate the risk of obesity. These habits can lead to an energy imbalance where calorie consumption significantly outweighs calorie expenditure, contributing to unhealthy weight gain.

The other options do not contribute positively to the understanding of risk factors for obesity. High levels of physical activity support a healthy weight, normal growth patterns are expected in healthy children, and increased sleep duration is generally associated with better health outcomes rather than an increased risk of obesity.