The prevalence of fast food, junk foods, processed foods and inactivity all contribute to childhood obesity. Obesity rates for American kids between the ages of six and 11 have risen from 6.5 percent in 1980 to 19.6 percent in 2008, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Implement a sound weight loss plan for your child to help prevent Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and other serious health problems later in life.
Step 1
Visit your doctor to ensure an illness or glandular disorder is not causing your child's overweight. Ask the doctor to help you create a weight-loss plan for your child or to refer you to a dietitian.
Step 2
Set an example for your child to follow. Eat the way you would like him to eat, and exercise with the frequency you would like him to exercise. Emphasize vegetables and fruits, whole grains and lean protein in your own diet. Show interest in the problem and in helping find a solution--without appearing judgmental.
Step 3
Analyze your child's diet to find the sources of extra calories that have put on weight. One pound of fat equals about 3,500 calories, according to KeepKidsHealthy.com. Decreasing caloric intake by at least 3,500 per week results in the loss of a pound per week. Cut out liquid calories from sources like soda. "The rise in soft drink consumption mirrors the national march toward obesity," says CNN senior medical producer Caleb Hellerman.
Step 4
Cook and eat at home often. Create a daily menu plan. Make dishes in advance if you have limited time during the week rather than turning to fast food. Ask your child to help in the preparation, so she will feel a sense of accomplishment and look forward to eating her own creations.
Step 5
Set rules and boundaries for exercise, television and computer time. Limit sedentary activities such as playing video games and watching television and encourage outdoor activity.
Step 6
Enroll your child in a class that will get him moving and keep his interest. Gymnastics, dancing, martial arts, basketball, soccer and swimming are activities children of either gender can play and enjoy.
Things You'll Need
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Lean protein
- Whole grains
- Menu plan
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