A influência da obesidade no início da vida e possíveis repercussões no tecido ósseo

Abstract

Human growth and development are dynamic and continuous processes that are influenced by genetic, environmental and nutritional factors and must act together to promote adequate growth and development of the individual. However, changes in the population's eating habits, known as nutritional transition, which is characterized by increased intake of foods rich in saturated fats and refined sugars, with a consequent reduction in foods that are sources of nutrients and fiber, promote inadequate nutritional intake and contribute to the increase in overweight and obesity rates. Among children and adolescents, the incidence of overweight and obesity has increased at a worrying rate, and different factors, including genetics and protein-energy malnutrition, may contribute to the increase in these morbidities and generate undesirable consequences, since obese children are more likely to develop diseases such as bone diseases at an early age as adults. This complication may be favored by the elevation of systemic levels of pro-inflammatory mediators synthesized in adipose tissue, which may compromise bone development and formation by stimulating the action of anti-osteogenic factors. The objective of this review was to verify the influence that obesity in childhood and adolescence will promote in the activation of the immune system that may favor the emergence of early bone diseases in the individual. Original articles published between 2000 and 2013 were considered, where the terms “child nutrition disorders,” “obesity,” “inflammation,” and “bone” were used as descriptors. Fifty-five articles in English and Portuguese with free access and available in full within the theme were selected, prioritizing articles published for the age group between twelve months and 19 years for both sexes. Of these, 11 articles were selected for the purpose of developing a script for analyzing the texts. Obesity can trigger metabolic and hormonal changes, favored by the increase in pro-inflammatory substances, which can significantly interfere with the formation and development of bone tissue. However, changes in lifestyle habits, especially with regard to healthy eating, can reduce the rate of overweight and obesity, helping to minimize bone complications triggered by excessive weight gain.