Childhood Obesity
There are many reasons that we are seeing more overweight children than we used to. Portion sizes when eating out are larger, kids often get less exercise. More time is spent in front of the TV and computer. One out of five kids is now overweight, and they are at risk for being overweight adults.
There is more risk if parents are also overweight, and if siblings are also. Some of it may be genetic, but a similar environment is a factor too. Parents should be supportive of overweight kids and try to be a good example. Increasing levels of exercise and watching family food choices can help. Pay attention to what food choices are offered at school and avoid upsizing fast food meals. Be aware of calories in sugared drinks, and use of food as rewards and punishment is not a good idea.
Recently Answered
- Q Should I try to embarrass my overweight children so they lose weight?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyShaming overweight kids is never a good idea. Watch this video to learn why a group of doctors featured on The Dr. Oz Show believe making kids feel bad about their weight is more akin to bullying than tough love. Full Answer
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- Q What is childhood obesity?
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Childhood obesity has risen dramatically in the past several decades. A serious medical condition, childhood obesity is particularly troubling because the additional weight can lead to health problems that were once confined to adults, such as diabetes,... Full Answer
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- Q How can I talk to my child about his weight?
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Before talking with your child or teen about weight, carefully review the following recommendations -- each is backed up with scientific research: Talk about “healthy weight.” Always emphasize the importance of being a healthy weight... Full Answer
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- Q How can I help my child maintain a healthy weight?
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Lynn Grieger, Nutrition & DieteticsIt's important that parents realize we are both role models and gatekeepers for our children. When our kids see us enjoying healthy snacks, drinking water when we're thirsty, and particpating in fun physical activities they'll learn to do the same... Full Answer
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- Q What exercises can help my child avoid obesity?
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Kids between the ages of 4 and 6 can benefit from unstructured play and exploration under your watchful eye. Good activities for kids in this age include running, playing catch or swimming. Unstructured play outdoors or a walk through the neighborhood... Full Answer
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- Q Is it true that the first foods a baby eats can contribute to obesity risk?
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If the initial diet you expose your child to is very high in grain carbohydrates and fats, then you may be setting your child up for a lifetime of struggle with obesity. A more varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy grains and proteins low in... Full Answer
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- Q How can getting more sleep help reduce my child's risk of obesity?
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Dr. Michael Breus, PsychologyThe results of a study published in the Journal of American Medical Association indicate that every additional hour of sleep young children receive can reduce their risk of being overweight. Researchers in New Zealand studied the sleep habits and... Full Answer
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- Q How can sleep deprivation increase my child's risk of obesity?
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Dr. Michael Breus, PsychologySleep has a significant impact on children’s weight. Children who are sleep deprived are at greater risk for weight problems. The risk starts early and can extend into adulthood. Recent research into the sleep-weight connection has shown:... Full Answer
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- Q Why are so many kids overweight or obese?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyA slew of changes in our country over the past few decades have combined to produce a national weight problem. In this video, First Lady Michelle Obama talks with Dr. Oz about how parents can help their children get active and shed excess weight.... Full Answer
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- Q What are the effects of childhood obesity?
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Dr. Kathleen Hall, Preventive MedicineWith childhood obesity growing and creating life-threatening conditions that will plague our children's lives; we are endangering the lives of our children. We must begin to focus on this epidemic. Gerald S. Berenson, M.D., of Tulane University... Full Answer
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