Kids should not diet like adults, says the Nemours Foundation. An adult diet is restrictive and low in calorie, kids are still growing and need to eat enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals to support their growth. Healthy diets for kids to lose weight should teach kids how to make better food choices, not restrict their overall intake. It is recommended you discuss weight loss with your child's doctor before starting a program.
Slimkids
Slimkids is a weight loss program your kids do at home. The Slimkids diet is healthy and balanced based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It has also been evaluated and approved by both pediatricians and dietitians, according to the website. The program teaches you and your kids how to make better food choices and control portions. The diet is not restrictive and even allows kids to eat some of their favorite foods, such as hot dogs and hamburgers. The Slimkids program includes diet guidelines, sample menus, recipes, a food diary and tips for after school snacking and holiday meals. Most kids who follow the program lose about 1 lb. a week, according to the website.
Shapedown
Shapedown is a group-based weight management program. It is a 10-week program with weekly 2 hour meetings. Shapedown is not just for your overweight kid, but expects the whole family to become involved. Shapedown says kids have more success with losing weight and keeping it off when they have the support of their family. At each session, you and your kids learn how to increase your daily activity and make healthier food choices. The Shapedown diet is not restrictive and is designed to prevent your kids from feeling deprived. In addition to learning healthy diet and exercise habits, Shapedown also works on improving your kid's self-esteem and body image, while helping you to set better limits. Most kids following the Shapedown program lose 1 to 1 1/2 lbs. a week, according to the website.
Go, Slow and Whoa
The Go, Slow and Whoa program was developed by the U.S. National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute, a member of the National Institutes of Health, as a tool for both kids and parents to learn how to make better food choices. The program divides foods into three groups. The Go foods are healthy, low-calorie choices kids can eat with free will. Examples of Go foods include fruits, vegetables and skim milk. Slow foods contain more calories and should only be eaten a few times a week. Examples of Slow foods include pancakes, juice and low-fat hot dogs. Whoa foods are high in calorie and kids should rarely consume these foods. Eating too many Whoa foods may lead to weight gain, says the Nemours Foundation. Examples of Whoa foods include french fries, fried chicken and sweetened breakfast cereals.
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