Overweight Kids

What is Obesity

Obesity occurs when your child’s body mass index (BMI) is above the 95th percentile. BMI is measured using your child’s height and weight measurements to figure out his body fat.

What Causes Obesity?

Though some kids are pre-destined to be overweight by genetics, today’s society contributes to the problem.

Fast Food

Fast food restaurants are in or near every neighborhood. For parents, the food is convenient and cheap. For kids, greasy hamburgers are tasty, and fast food restaurants are fun. It is easy to fall into the trap of eating fast food on a regular basis. Fried, greasy foods are not healthy. They lack nutrients and are high in fat.

Children need healthy food to grow and create energy. Though fast food is a treat once in a while, avoid making it a weekly habit.

Convenience Foods

Boxed foods and frozen meals line the aisles of all grocery stores. They offer quick and easy-to- make meal solutions. Often they are full of preservatives and empty calories. Balance quick meals with salads, fresh fruit, vegetables, milk and wheat bread.

Every child gets hungry between meals. Keep quick, sugary sweets to a minimum, and encourage fresh fruits, cheese, yogurt and other healthy snacks.

If your child loves to throw food into your shopping cart, try grocery shopping without him. If you need to bring him along, allow him to pick out one treat for the week.

Video Games and the Internet

When video game systems first came out, graphics were simple and game choices few. Today, many homes have multiple gaming systems hooked up with a library of games to choose from.

Though video games keep your child out of trouble, they take away from time he should be spending outdoors.

Video game manufacturers are addressing this problem with the invention of Dance Dance Revolution and the Nintendo Wii. However, nothing takes the place of running and bike riding.

For children who are not into video games, the Internet provides a social, non-active activity. It is an endless Web of games and Websites, and extremely addictive. Limit the time your child is online, and encourage them to go outside and play.

Cars and Elevators

Before cars and elevators, excercise was a part of people's daily routine. Though it was inconvenient, obesity was not as big of an issue. Take advantage of warmer weather to walk to nearby stores, parks and restaurants. Encourage your children to use the stairs.

Chronic Obesity

For some children, genetics play a role in the weight problem. If both parents are overweight, work with your doctor to prevent child obesity.

Other Issues for Overweight Kids

Not only is being overweight unhealthy, it puts kids at risk for self-esteem and future health issues.

Overweight kids are often teased more by their peers resulting in a poor self-image and low self-respect. Other risks include the following:

• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol levels
• Shortness of breath, making it harder to play sports
• Early physical maturity (causing adults to expect kids to act older)
• Depression

Preventing Overweight Kids

As a parent, there are steps you can take to prevent your child from becoming overweight.

Dieting

If your child is already overweight, talk to your doctor about putting him on a diet. The diet should include lifestyle changes. If the whole family has bad eating habits, they will need to make changes so the overweight kids do not feel they are being singled out.

Exercise

Start your child on an exercise program early. Sports are great for keeping your child active. If she is not coordinated, keep her outdoors as often as possible. Encourage her to ride her bike and walk. Your child should be active for at least one hour per day.

If your child is a couch potato or video game addict, set rules. Do not let him turn on the tube until after he has gotten some exercise or played sports. Some suggestions include the following:

• Soccer or kickball
• Track or casual running
• Walking
• Dance or Drill Team
• Dance Revolution
• Walking dogs
• Riding their bike
• Basketball
• Jumprope
• Swimming

Eating Habits

Control your child's diet by keeping the fridge and pantries stocked with healthy food. Avoid purchasing snack items with empty calories. Only have soda in the house for special occasions.

Use fast food as a treat, rather then a typical dinner or lunch solution.

When the whole family works together and sets expectations, you will have healthier and happier children.

Learn more about diet, fitness, and weight loss at LoveToKnow Diet.

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