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What to do When Your Child has a Weight Problem
Studies show that one in six young
people (ages 6-19) is overweight, and 15% of all children in the U.S. are
overweight. With these startling statistics, it’s no wonder parents are becoming
more concerned about their children’s weight.
Obesity in children can cause
extreme health concerns, like diabetes, high cholesterol, sleep apnea, bone
problems, and more. Childhood obesity also brings about depression, early
puberty and poor self-esteem. These are all serious reasons to be concerned
about your child’s weight.
If you are concerned that your child
may be obese, you should make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician. In
addition, here are a few simple steps you can take to help manage your child’s
weight issue:
- Less television time. Children are
spending more and more time in front of the television. The largest cause of
inactivity among children is because of television, electronic games and
computers. In this technology age, children are spending more time in front of
screens, and less outdoors.
Another big no-no is eating in front of the television. Spend time together as a
family around the dinner table. Take extra time to make healthy meals together.
Get the family involved as a unit to promote a healthier lifestyle. If you need
help with this visit www.dinewithoutwhine.com/services
- Simple exercise. When you say “exercise” to
your kids, the reaction you’ll probably get is moans and groans. Make exercise
so much fun that they’ll want to exercise. Now is the perfect time to make this
a life-long habit for all family members. Include jumping rope, skating and long
walks. Even a trip to the zoo gets the whole family out and exercising in a fun
way. Think of different approaches to exercise and you’ll figure out even more
ways to make it fun for everyone.
- Phase out junk food. Substitute real fruit
juice for soft drinks. Offer raw vegetable cuts with a low-fat or fat-free dip,
instead of chips and dip. Make eating healthy foods enjoyable for your child.
- Team work. The last thing you want to do is
make your child feel isolated or cut off from the rest of the family. Implement
your child’s new healthy way of living and eating into the entire family’s
lifestyle. Show your child how important they are by setting the standard for
them. Doing so will not only make it easier for your child, but will show them
that you care about their health.
- Encourage daily. Self-esteem plays a key
factor in weight issues, especially among children. Remember to cheer them on
every day. Let your child know they’re doing an awesome job every step of the
way.
- Keep in mind that your child did not become
obese overnight. It is a daily process that requires determination on both your
part and your child.
Take the steps to live a healthy lifestyle
starting today. Your entire family will reap the rewards.
