Child Weight Loss Plan

If your child is overweight or obese, you should discuss this problem with your pediatrician. Instead of a certain diet, a doctor is likely to make suggestions on how to help the child eat better and become more active. A weight-loss plan should involve a complete lifestyle change for the entire family.

Effects

Your child is likely to develop unhealthy habits if her weight is not controlled during childhood. The overweight child is at a higher risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, joint problems, liver disease and gallbladder disease in adulthood, according to the KidsHealth website, sponsored by the Nemours Foundation.

Types

Start with a healthy breakfast each day to help your child lose weight. He is less likely to overeat later in the day when away from home. Options you may consider serving include a whole grain bagel with low fat cream cheese, fruit salad and yogurt, or a whole grain cereal with low fat milk.

Considerations

Snacks and soft drinks can wreak havoc on a child's weight loss plan. Serve the child water or low-fat milk for most drinks. Get rid of junk food in the house, such as chips, candy and snack cakes. For snacks, serve lower fat and healthier fare, like apples and low-fat peanut butter, raisins, raw veggies and low-fat granola bars.

Prevention/Solution

Eat dinner as a family as often as possible if you're trying to help your child lose weight. Allow the child to help plan the meals that the family eats. Use healthy ingredients that include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. The Weight Control Information Network suggests that you limit visits to fast food restaurants. If you do visit an establishment, order healthy meal choices for you and the child, including salads with low-fat dressings or sandwiches without any cheese or condiments.

Warning

It is important that you remain supportive while helping a child lose weight recommends the KidsHealth website. Tell the child he is loved and that you love him no matter what. Never call him names or make him feel bad about his weight. Never use food as a reward of punishment if you want him to have a healthy attitude about eating.