Glossary · Growth

Childhood obesity

Defined in the US as BMI at or above the 95th percentile for age and sex. Linked to higher lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and joint problems. Roughly 1 in 5 US children meets the definition, and the prevalence has tripled since the 1980s.

Related terms

BMI percentile (children)
Growth chart
Growth spurt
Catch-up growth
Failure to thrive
WHO growth standards

Miriel uses this concept across food scans, meal plans, and AI Coach responses where it is relevant to a child's profile. For the underlying clinical and scientific basis, see the research page.