Few things are more adorable as a parent than a full-chested baby or chubby toddler. However, sweet baby fat can become a health problem for some children.
Nearly one in four children and teenagers in developed countries is overweight or obese today. Children who are overweight or obese risk developing heart disease, diabetes, and asthma. The emotional impact of childhood obesity is also significant. Children who are overweight often have difficulty keeping up with their peers and participating in activities and sports. Others may ridicule or exclude them, leading to low self-esteem, a negative body image, and even depression.
It’s easy for parents to feel helpless or overwhelmed when their child struggles with weight. There are many things you can do for your child. Early diagnosis of obesity and weight problems can help reduce the risk of your child developing severe health conditions later in life. You can help your family break the cycle of obesity and weight problems by getting everyone involved. This will improve your child’s mental and physical health and establish a healthy relationship with food that will last a lifetime. No matter your child’s weight, let them know you love them and want to help them become happy and healthy.
Is your child overweight?
Because children grow at different rates, it can be challenging to determine if they have excess weight. To determine how much body fat a child carries, the Body Mass Index (BMI) uses height and weight measurements. Although BMI is a reliable indicator of body fat, it can be misleading when children experience rapid growth.
Children’s obesity and weight problems
It is essential to understand how overweight children are born. Childhood obesity is most often caused by excessive eating and insufficient exercise. Healthy growth and development of children require adequate food. However, consuming more calories than they burn during the day can lead to weight gain.
Get the whole family involved in weight loss efforts
Healthy habits begin at home. It is essential to ensure the entire family is on a healthy path to reducing childhood obesity and other weight problems. Everyone, regardless of their weight, will benefit from better food choices and more exercise.
Your children’s health can be improved by you being involved in their daily lives. Talking to your children about their day, reading, and cooking can boost their self-esteem to make positive choices.
Choose healthier foods
Although you might need to make significant changes in your family’s eating habits and lifestyle, it is easy to give up or cheat. Instead of making a significant change, make small changes to healthy eating. This could be as simple as adding a salad to your dinner or switching from French fries to steamed vegetables. You can make small changes that become a habit and continue to make healthier choices.
