Bad diets, lack of exercise and living an unhealthy lifestyle can lead to belly fat in kids. The fat deep in your abdomen surrounds your vital organs, and too much of it can cause medical problems. At one time, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol and obesity were mostly seen in adults, but it is now a problem for kids as well. Helping your child lose belly fat can give him a ticket to a longer and healthier life.
Step 1
Start introducing healthier foods slowly to your child's diet and eliminating those that have caused weight gain. It is never too early or late to teach her about food and the benefits of eating healthy; habits and lessons that you instill at an early age can last a lifetime.
Step 2
Swap your child's white-flour pasta, breads and cereals with those made with whole-grain or whole-wheat. White flour causes a surge in blood sugar and is not as good for the digestive system. Check food labels and make sure the first ingredient listed is whole-wheat flour rather than wheat flour; the latter is white flour in disguise.
Step 3
Remove most of the sugar from your child's diet. Sugar and kids seem to go together, but you can control when she indulges and with how much. Save sugar for birthday parties and special celebrations. Find non-food-related ways to reward her for good behavior at home or high marks in school.
Step 4
Teach your kid to like vegetables. Serve cut-up raw veggies like cucumbers, carrots, celery and green peppers with fun dips, such as low-fat ranch dressing or salsa. He may enjoy dipping so much that he doesn't even realize he's eating vegetables.
Step 5
Get your kid moving in any way you can to burn off belly fat. Find physical activities that she enjoys, such as playing in the park, taking the dog for a walk or riding his bicycle. At least 60 minutes a day being active is best for kids.
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