Treatment and Prevention

How can you help your child fight obesity?
Be a good role model.

Image of a boy with ice cream and two kids watching TV.

Studies have concluded that kids are spending too much time in front of television and computer screens while eating food that lacks real nutritional value. Eating too much in combination with a lack of activity are the essential factors that contribute to obesity.

Encouraging the family to eat healthier foods and exercise; more exercise is good for everybody. Organize family outings that involve physical activities like bike riding, skating, or hiking. Make family meals an event and not something you do in front of the TV. When shopping, buy fruits and vegetables instead of pre-packaged convenience foods that are high in sugar and fat. Have healthy snacks available for your kids and limit the amount of sweetened beverages that are consumed, including juices that have high calories and little nutrition. When making dinner, use recipes and methods that are lower in fat, bake chicken instead of fry it.

Image of a father and son biking in the park. Image of a family eating together at the table.

If your child is already overweight, in many cases, simply maintaining that present weight is good enough as it will provide the opportunity for your child to grow into his or her pounds. Offer healthy food but do not force it. Keep in mind that focusing intensely on your child's eating habits and weight can backfire and result in overeating or developing an eating disorder.

When it comes to getting out, emphasize activity and not exercise. Rather than being critical, focus on the fun of playing outside and the benefits of exercise apart from helping to manage their weight. For example, it makes their heart, lungs and other muscles stronger. Foster their natural inclination to run around, explore, and eat only when hungry — not out of boredom.

As a parent, you are vital to helping your obese child feel loved and in control of his or her weight. Build your child's self-esteem at every opportunity, especially since overweight kids are at an increased risk of depression. Celebrate small, incremental changes, but don't reward with food.