An interesting study has been published that links lack of attachment with the mother in childhood with an increased risk of obesity in adolescence, a relationship that may seem a bit strange but has its foundation, and by the way very relevant.
The type of relationship established with the baby has consequences on his health, also in the long term. The mother's attachment to the baby is measured based on her ability and willingness to meet both the physical and emotional needs of the child. When their basic needs are not met, the child develops a response to stress that tries to calm the food.
There is no doubt that in obesity there is a strong emotional component, which could have its origin in the lack of attachment with the mother in childhood.
According to the study, when analyzing the data of almost a thousand children, the less sensitive the mother had to the emotional needs of her son, that is, less ability to recognize the emotional state of her son and respond to him correctly, he was more at risk of being obese at age 15.
Of the children who had low emotional attachment relationships with their mothers, 25 percent, one in four, was obese, while only 13 percent had this excess weight if the bond was closer.
It is believed that the association between lack of attachment with the mother and an increased risk of obesity It could have a cerebral origin, since the limbic system of the brain is the one that controls emotions and responses to stress, but it is also responsible for regulating the cycle of sleep, hunger, thirst, and other metabolic processes.
According to Dr. Sarah Anderson of the University of Ohio, author of the study,
"A well-regulated response to stress could affect how children eat and sleep, two factors that directly influence the development of obesity."
Therefore, when talking about preventing childhood obesity, it should be taken into account, in addition to food and exercise, the promotion of a strong and close mother-child affective bond. It is a fundamental basis for a healthy integral development.
