Obesity is a serious problem for children and adolescents in the United States. According to the 2007 to 2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 17 percent of children and adolescents are obese. Obese kids are more likely to become obese adults, says the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. In order to halt the obesity epidemic, children under 18 need to change their lifestyle and learn how to make healthier food choices.
Slimkids
Slimkids is an at-home weight management program for both children and adolescents. It was designed by a pediatric nurse with over 27 years of experience in child care. The diet plan follows the recommendations of the U.S. Dietary Guidelines and provides balanced nutrition advice to support the continued growth and development of both children and teenagers. The kids follow a calorie-controlled meal plan and instead of counting calories, learn about portion control and healthy food choices. The Slimkids program includes diet guidelines, a food diary, sample meal plans, recipes, holiday eating guides and tips on how to eat after school. Once you join the program, you also have access to an online support team to help answer questions and provide motivation.
USDA MyPyramid Plan
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPyramid Plan is designed to teach you how to make better food choices to maintain a healthy weight and prevent the onset of chronic diseases. The MyPyramid Plan is a personalized diet plan appropriate for kids 2 to 18. The plan includes calorie recommendations and serving suggestions from each food group based on your age, height, weight, activity level and sex. The MyPyramid Plan is a low-fat, high fiber diet emphasizing whole grains, fruits and vegetables. The plan also provides tips on healthy food choices from each group, along with healthy methods of preparation. The MyPyramid plan also discusses the importance of physical activity, and provides information and tips on how to be more active.
Shapedown
Shapedown is a group-based weight-management program for kids aged 6 to 18. The program is age sensitive, and divides the kids up into age appropriate groups. The 10-week program works with both the kids and their parents, teaching them how to be more active as a family and make better food choices. In fact, the plan emphasizes the importance of family involvement because kids have more success with weight loss if they have the support of their family, according to the website. The plan is not strict, but works on creating healthier lifestyles. Kids lose 1 to 2 pounds a week following the Shapedown program, reports the website.
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