Childhood obesity is a significant healthcare problem leading to numerous complications in adulthood. A PubMed database search was conducted to identify articles on modifiable risk factors contributing to the rising incidence of obesity and overweight in the paediatric population. This article discusses increased consumption of unhealthy snacks or sweetened beverages, larger portion sizes and caloric content, general changes in the quality of products intended for children, the marketing of processed foods, and the influence of family eating patterns as key factors shaping unhealthy dietary habits among children and adolescents. Subsequently, low physical activity is discussed as another modifiable factor contributing to the development of obesity. Next, the use of dietary supplements that falsely create a sense of diet augmentation is also discussed. Strategies to reduce overweight and obesity in children should be comprehensive and encompass both parental and national initiatives. Above all, media promotion of highly processed, low-quality foods should be limited and replaced with campaigns promoting healthy alternatives. Education at school and at home should aim to increase awareness and develop healthy eating habits. Physical activity should be encouraged in all age groups. If non-pharmacological interventions are ineffective, individualised pharmacological treatment should be considered, which currently includes liraglutide or – less preferably – orlistat. Failure to take early preventive measures could exacerbate the obesity epidemic in Poland and increase the number of patients with numerous obesity-related complications, placing a burden on the future healthcare system.