Childhood obesity is an epidemic that keeps getting worse. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of American children and adolescents are overweight or obese. These conditions can lead to serious health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. If your child is overweight or obese, following these five tips can lead to a healthier lifestyle for your family.
- Eat healthy as a family.
You are your child's strongest role model. Eating well-balanced family meals, including at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day, encourages your children to have a more nutritious diet. Limit sugary juices, treats, and desserts to special occasions only. While it can be a difficult adjustment at first, don't lose sight of the goal of helping your kid avoid childhood obesity.
- Emphasize exercise.
Don't rely on school physical education classes for your child's recommended 45 to 60 minutes of exercise per day. Instead, take a walk together after dinner as a family, do healthy activities like hiking or biking instead of going out for ice cream, and frequent a gym or swimming pool together. Make an active lifestyle a household priority and prevent childhood obesity.
- Work with a pediatrician.
Talking frankly with your child's doctor can go a long way. Pediatricians can help set recommended weight goals and develop a plan to overcome childhood obesity. Regular visits are a good way to help keep your whole family on track.
- Limit "screen time."
The older your child, the harder it is to keep him or her away from the television, computer, or smartphone. But by being proactive with limits, you'll encourage your child to get outside and be active. Experts recommend less than two hours of screen time per day, and much less for toddlers and elementary-aged children.
- Involve your child.
While living a healthy lifestyle should not be optional in your home, your child should have input on the foods you eat and the activities you do. Let him or her choose one new fruit or vegetable to try a week, explore new outdoor activities you can do as a family, and have your child help you cook healthy meals. If your child buys into a plan to overcome childhood obesity, it will likely be more successful.
