Children are more concerned with the social consequences of being overweight or obese than the health implications, according to a new survey.
The report on childhood obesity - The Voice of Young People- surveyed the attitudes of Irish children aged 10-14 in relation to diet, nutrition and exercise.
The report found children thought of a healthy diet as one that means they will not gain weight rather than one that delivers the right balance of nutrients and food groups.
Other research has shown that children as young as four can have a strong prejudice against overweight people believing them to be lazy and responsible for their condition.
Speaking today, Prof Patrick Wall, Associate Professor of UCD School of Public Health and Population Science, said: "Obesity in children has reached epidemic levels in Ireland, with many overweight children going on to become overweight adults.
"The consequences of obesity are far reaching, with it potentially leading to increased health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and joint problems."