Limiting portion sizes to reduce the risk of childhood overweight and obesity

Overweight and obese children are at higher risk of developing serious health problems including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and other respiratory problems, sleep disorders and liver disease. They may also suffer from psychological effects, such as low self-esteem, depression and social isolation. Childhood obesity also increases the risk of obesity, noncommunicable diseases, premature death and disability in adulthood.

Portion sizes of commercially available and home-prepared foods have increased over the last several decades in many settings. Evidence from a limited number of studies suggests that availability of larger portions is associated with an increase in total caloric intake, which could lead to weight gain. Limiting portion size may therefore be effective as an intervention to prevent overeating and possibly reduce the risk of overweight and obesity among children.