Experiencing trauma during childhood is linked with a higher risk of developing obesity, a new study has claimed.
However, going on to experience positive moments after trauma can prevent people from developing obesity, academics have said.
Latest research looking at data from 5,000 children in the Growing Up in New Zealand study has highlighted that 87% of the cohort had experienced a least one source of trauma by the age of eight.
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In addition, the results have shown that one in three of the participants experienced at least three traumatic events by the age of eight.
Exposure to domestic violence, peer bullying, physical and emotional abuse, incarceration, separation or divorce, parental substance abuse, mental illness and ethnic discrimination are examples of childhood trauma.
Children from low-income households are more likely to experience traumatic events compared to those from wealthier backgrounds.
The findings have revealed that children experiencing at least one traumatic event were 50% more at risk of being obese by the age of eight, with the percentage increasing with the number of traumatic experiences.
Children who experience parental domestic violence and physical abuse are most likely to become obese.
Positive experiences during childhood can prevent the development of obesity.
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These include having parents in a committed relationship, a mother interacting well with their children and a mother involved in social groups.
In addition, positive experiences are defined as:
- Children living in households with routines and rules, including those regulating bedtime, screen time and mealtimes
- Children attending effective early childhood education
- Children engaged in enriching experiences and activities such as visiting libraries or museums and participating in sports and community events.
