How can I talk to a friend about childhood obesity?

John La Puma

Endocrinology Diabetes & Metabolism

Don't Accuse; Don't Use Guilt or Shame; Don't Instill Fear; Don't Manipulate; Don't Set a Bad Example. Check off each for yourself before you talk to a friend.

Judy Caplan on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

If you have a friend who is obese the best way to talk with them about their obesity is to start helping them be more active. Make plans to go for a walk or to a bowling alley. Plan a picnic lunch at park and pack the basket with low calorie foods. Sign up to take a class together. Once he or she trusts you as a confident, you can broach the subject more directly. Suggest joining Weight Watchers. Sign up for a healthy cooking class. Find a registered dietitian at www.eatright.org. A registered dietitian (RD) can help your friend lose weight. More importantly an RD will help he or she understand how to eat and live in a new way that promises hope, successful weight loss and weight maintenance, and less risk of developing chronic disease.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.