C-sections double childhood obesity risk, scientists say

A new study suggests that babies delivered by cesarean section may have double the risk of obesity later in life, due to differences in gut bacteria than those born vaginally.

This is one study I totally disagree with, and as a matter of fact, I believe it could lead to unnecessary stress and interfere with critical decisions regarding delivery. There are many other factors that have much greater influence on the weight of a child, including maternal weight, newborn weight, child’s lifestyle, and physical activity.

I understand that there is a need to decrease C-section rates in this country, but making the association between C-section and childhood obesity based on the potential effect of gut bacteria confuses the issue, and this data needs to be confirmed and validated.

Tell me what you think.