Childhood Obesity: Effects of Micronutrients, Supplements, Genetics, and Oxidative Stress

Nurse practitioners are well aware of the increasing incidence of obesity and diseases associated with obesity in children and adolescents. Childhood obesity is a complex and multifactorial condition, influenced by much more than simply how many calories are consumed and expended. The type of food, the frequency and timing of its intake, genetic makeup, gut microflora diversity, dietary supplements, and the complexities of the nutrigenomic environment all contribute to adiposity and obesity. This article provides an overview of the current research concerning nutrigenomics, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and other nutriceuticals in the treatment and prevention of obesity.