Is Your Child Overweight?
How to help them without hurting them.
Almost 1 in 3 children ages 5 to 11 is considered to be overweight or obese.
Consequences of Childhood Obesity
The effects on the body include high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which often leads to heart disease. Another concern is Type 2 diabetes which has drastically increased in overweight children and adolescents. Some other health risks include asthma, gallstones, liver problems, menstrual problems, and problems sleeping.
The effects on the mind include bulimia, anorexia, low self esteem, depression, and often suicidal thoughts and actions.
How To Address It
Be positive and supportive.
Be realistic.
Stay open and let them ask questions.
Act normal.
Specific Ideas
- "Weight is not who YOU are."
- "It’s not about how you look, but how you feel."
- Commit to healthy eating and exercise with them.
How To Help
- More outdoor time and less television time.
- Increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat.
- Limiting the number of sweets (foods and beverages) you eat a week.
- Drink more water and milk and less sodas and juices.
- When serving your child start with smaller portions and let them ask for more if still hungry and don't make them finish their plate.
References
Weight-Control Information Network. (2013, December 71). Helping Your Overweight Child. Retrieved from http://win.niddk.nih.gov/publications/over_child.htm#b
Berk, L. E. (2007). Physical and cognitive Development in Middle Childhood. InDevelopment through the lifespan (5th ed., pp. 289-328). Boston, MA: Allyn and Bacon.