Can early emotional wounds lead to long-term weight struggles? A new study suggests they can. Childhood adversity, ranging from abuse and neglect to household dysfunction may increase the risk of obesity later in life.
For parents, this highlights the importance of nurturing environments and early emotional support.
What the Study Found
A recent study presented at ESPGHAN 2025 by researchers in Iraq found that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) were strongly linked to obesity in adulthood.
Out of 948 adolescent and adult participants (aged 18 and above), more than half reported at least one form of ACE. These included:
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Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
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Physical or emotional neglect
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Household dysfunction (e.g. parental separation, substance abuse, domestic violence, or incarceration of a family member)
Among the participants:
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59.4% had experienced at least one ACE
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15% reported four or more types of ACEs
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12.4% were classified as obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2)
Researchers observed that the more ACEs a person had experienced, the higher their likelihood of obesity. This link was statistically significant (p=0.003).
How Childhood Adversity Affects Health
Childhood trauma can disrupt a child’s emotional and physical development. According to lead researcher Dr. Niga Hama Rashid, these experiences can lead to:
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Depression and anxiety
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Unhealthy coping mechanisms such as emotional eating
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Sedentary behaviour
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Low self-worth, affecting motivation to maintain physical health
Children who grow up in unsafe or unsupportive environments may adopt maladaptive behaviours such as poor nutrition and low physical activity. These increase their risk of obesity as they become adults.
Why This Matters for Parents
The connection between childhood adversity and adult obesity reinforces a powerful message: early experiences shape long-term health.
While not all risk factors can be avoided, how parents respond to stress, conflict, and their child’s emotional needs can make a meaningful difference.
Gentle Parenting Tips That Support Lifelong Health
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Validate emotions: Let your child know it’s okay to feel sad, frustrated, or scared. Avoid dismissive phrases like “Don’t cry” or “Get over it.”
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Offer calm guidance: Discipline doesn’t need to involve yelling or physical punishment. Focus on teaching rather than punishing.
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Be consistent and present: Simple daily routines, shared meals, and listening without judgment build emotional security.
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Model healthy coping: Show how you manage your own stress with exercise, deep breathing, or asking for help.
Supporting Children Beyond the Home
Apart from family care, broader support systems can help buffer the effects of childhood adversity. The study’s authors recommend:
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Therapy and counselling for children and families
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School-based wellness programs to teach emotional regulation and healthy habits
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Community activities that encourage connection, such as sports or support groups
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Safe spaces for physical activity to promote movement and well-being
Final Thoughts
This study is a powerful reminder that childhood experiences don’t just fade away. They can follow children well into adulthood, even showing up on the scale. But it’s also a message of hope. With awareness, support, and a nurturing approach, families can help reduce the long-term health risks tied to childhood adversity.
Creating safe, supportive environments for children today isn’t just good parenting. It’s an investment in their future well-being.
Sources:
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ESPGHAN 2025, Abstract N-OP025
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Dr. Niga Hama Rashid, Pediatric Teaching Hospital, Sulaimanya, Iraq
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