Obesity in Kuwait: Causes, Childhood Risks & How to Stop It

Obesity can be described in the simple terms of too much body fat. It makes people feel tired, and they fall sick.

Kuwait is steadily seeing an increase in obesity. It could even happen to kids and adults.

So, if you want to know the real reasons behind it and staying healthy, keep on reading because I am going to explain it simply.

We will go through the causes for obesity, why it really can spell trouble for kids, and most importantly how you can stop it.

According to the latest research by the Global Obesity Observatory, Kuwait ranks 15th in the world, which might come as a shock to many people.

Being in 15th place globally in rates of obesity, Kuwait is literally treating a growing number of very obese people and downplaying their very real issues of health and happiness.

Why? Lifestyle, food, and environment-this is what we are getting into.

Fast track rise of childhood obesity is occurring in Kuwait.

Parents are concerned for the right reasons. An obese child will face health problems early on - onset of diabetes, cardiac conditions, and low self-esteem.

Here are the signs all parents should watch out for:

• Excess screen time and lack of physical activity
• Lots of sugary treats and fast food
• Skipping good meals or eating mostly processed foods
• No outdoor playtime due to heat or safety concerns

It really isn't about blaming parents or kids; rather, it is about identifying these habits early and making small changes before it becomes a major one.

What you eat plays a huge role in obesity. In Kuwait, fast food and sugary snacks are everywhere, so it’s easy to get addicted.

Everyone knows they taste great — but they play a major role in causing obesity.

Common food traps to avoid:

• Frequent consumption of fried foods and sugary beverages
• Large portion sizes at meals
• Late-night snacking or skipping meals and then overeating

A lot of people think eating healthy means eating boring food, but it actually means choosing the right food for your body.

Try eating fruit, whole grains, and chicken, they’re tasty too!

Taking even one small step can make a big difference for a better future. Your future self will thank you.

Sitting a lot? That’s the enemy of a healthy weight.

A lot of people in Kuwait live a sedentary lifestyle

sedentary lifestyle means

• Long hours sitting at a desk
• Very little physical movement during the day
• Driving everywhere instead of walking

Here’s how this lifestyle leads to obesity

• Fewer calories burned, so extra food turns into fat
• Weak muscles and slower metabolism
• Low energy levels, which make exercising harder

Breaking this habit doesn’t mean hitting the gym hard. It means simple moves like:

• Taking short walks after meals
• Standing or stretching every hour at work
• Using stairs instead of elevators
• Playing with kids or walking your dog

Every little bit counts and adds up.

Let’s be real — Kuwait’s summer heat is brutal. The scorching sun can make anyone want to stay indoors, avoiding exercise altogether.

This is a major reason obesity rates rise here:

• People avoid outdoor activities to escape the heat
• Gyms may be inconvenient or intimidating for beginners
• Limited options for active social events

But there are ways around it:

• Exercise early morning or late evening when it’s cooler
• Try indoor workouts like yoga, dancing, or home exercises
• Use swimming pools or air-conditioned spaces to stay active

Don’t let the weather win. Find what works for you and stick with it.

Obesity is something we can conquer! Helpful ideas for healthier living

Are you ready to get started taking control? Below is a simple, easy to follow plan to get started to take obesity away and feel better about yourself every day:

• Get Moving. Start with ten minutes a day then you can work up from there to thirty minutes, or more! Walk, stretch, dance, it doesn't matter just get up and move!
  
• Eat Smart. Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits! Avoid sugary drinks and fried food.
  
• Plan Your Meals. Skipping meals to cut calories always backfires. You should eat several times throughout the day and try to eat balanced meals to keep you from getting too hungry.
  
• Drink Water. Sometimes, thirst is mistaken for hunger. Water can be a great place to begin your day.
  
• Get Sleep. Sleep can work against you when it is time to deal with hunger hormones and weight. You want to aim for 7 to 8 hours.
  
• Managing Stress. Emotional or Stress eating is a route to develop obesity. Try not to replace processing stress with food but deep breaths, a hobby, or just talking to someone.

Just try to follow one step at a time, and once you’re comfortable, you’ll naturally follow everything. No need to push yourself.

Obesity in Kuwait is real, but it’s not unstoppable. Understanding why it happens — from food habits to lifestyle and environment — helps you make smarter choices.

However, it is nothing a person cannot overcome. If you understand why the issue exists - food patterns, lifestyle, and environment - you can make better decisions. You can start small.

Each step away from your previous habits is a step toward a new "you" who is healthier and happier.