Preventing Childhood Obesity - What Parents Can Do | Health

The number of overweight and obese children in the US is alarmingly high, but parents can do a lot to treat ? and prevent ? childhood obesity. Obesity is caused by consuming too many calories and not exercising enough. Preventing childhood obesity begins at home, by adopting a healthier lifestyle for the entire family.

Helping Your Overweight Child

As a rule, young children should not be made to lose weight, since they are still growing and developing. The focus, then, should be to maintain the child?s current weight while he or she grow normally in height. If an obese or overweight child must be put on a diet, it should be under the supervision of a physician and only for medical reasons. Children need an adequate supply of calories and nutrients in order to grow and develop normally.

The most effective strategies for preventing childhood obesity are healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and reduced sedentary activities. Instead of watching television or playing computer games, children should be encouraged to dance, jump rope, or engage in other physical activities that they enjoy. A healthy lifestyle should be developed during early childhood and practiced by all members of the family.

Get Your Family Started on a Healthy Lifestyle

If your child is becoming overweight or obese, the whole family can benefit by making healthy lifestyle changes. Singling out your obese child will only make him or her anxious, thus making it more difficult for the child to attain a healthy weight. By involving the entire family, you?ll make it easier for the obese child to adjust. As a bonus, your family will be healthier too.

Start small and make gradual changes that are easy to incorporate into your daily routine and to maintain in the long term. You can start by turning off the TV while eating your meals, and switching from soda to water. Take the family for a walk after dinner once a week.

Create the Right Environment for Healthy Weight

In order to make it easier to develop healthy habits, create an environment that promotes a healthy lifestyle. For example, you can stock your kitchen with fresh fruits and vegetables. Make sure you always have healthy foods on hand, not junk food.

Eat out less often, and find time to prepare nutritious meals for your family. Control portion sizes in order to prevent overeating, but encourage your family to fill up on fruits, vegetables and salads. You can also encourage your kids to get involved in menu planning, shopping, and meal preparation.

Physical activity is very important in preventing childhood obesity. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. Dance, jump rope, go for a walk or take a bike ride with your family. Ask your children to help with chores such as walking the dog or washing the car. Limit TV and computer time, and don?t allow eating while watching TV.

Set a Good Example

The best way to teach your child to live a healthy lifestyle and prevent childhood obesity is to commit to it yourself. Be a positive role model by eating nutritious foods and avoiding junk food. Save treats for special occasions. Exercise regularly and keep physically active. Help your child understand the importance of making healthy lifestyle choices.

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