How to avoid childhood obesity?

MattMom1.jpgThe number of overweight children is increasing dramatically over the years in the United States. There are more number of overweight girls than boys. Child obesity often results due to unhealthy eating habits and also due to reduced physical activity.

  • A child needs enough nutrients for their growth and development. So, going on a diet is not a good option for children. Before restricting your child’s diet, it would be better to consult the doctor and get his advice on the kind of food that needs to be cut down.
  • If your child says that he/she is not hungry do not force him/her to eat.
  • Do not encourage your child to eat fast food. Encourage healthy eating behavior.
  • Give nutrient rich food to your child.
  • Encourage your child to play outdoors rather than watching TV.
  • Do not sit before the TV and eat. Eating before the TV will lead to overeating as the child will not be able to feel whether their stomach is full.
  • Develop awareness among your child regarding nutritious and healthy eating habits.
  • Develop a positive attitude towards physical activity.
  • The family must eat together as much as possible. 

With good care and effort, you can prevent your child from being overweight.

One smashing comment for this post.

  1. Lynne Eldridge M.D. Said:

    Thanks for these great tips!
    As parents, we want the best for our children, and the skyrocketing rates of obesity in children are frightening. Not only does it predispose to obesity, it can result in cancer. Currently 20 percent of cancer deaths in women in the U.S. are due to obesity.

    One thing that is essential, is that we eat well and exercise OURSELVES. Our children model their behavior after ours. WE need to get outside and play. Currently 78.2 percent of men in the U.S. are overweight or obese. What are we modeling for our children?

    WE need to skip the fast food as well, and plan ahead healthy meals for our children. As a mom of four I know this takes time, but it is well worth it. Those who eat at fast food establishments two or more times per week are twice as likely to be obese and develop diabetes.

    Thanks!

    Lynne Eldridge M.D.
    Author, “Avoiding Cancer One Day At A Time”
    http://www.avoidcancernow.com

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