Belly fat, or excess pounds around the abdomen, once plagued mainly middle-aged people. But with growing rates of childhood obesity, even young children can have belly fat. Kids can lose belly fat the same way adults lose it -- by eating less and exercising more so that they lose weight. If your children sport a spare tire around the gut, you potentially can help them get rid of it -- and lose a few pounds yourself.
Belly Fat Risks
Belly fat shows that you've got plenty of excess fat deposited in and around your stomach, according to the University of Alabama at Birmingham. People with this type of fat experience higher rates of heart disease and diabetes. Unfortunately, kids experience these risks too. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 70 percent of all overweight and obese children and teens have at least one heart disease risk factor. These kids also risk diabetes. Losing this belly fat can reduce that risk.
Weight Loss Basics
Kids who need to lose belly fat need to drop the junk food and eat mainly healthy, low-fat foods, according to the University of Michigan Health System. That doesn't mean they can't enjoy the occasional treat, but it does mean they should quit snacking on chips, drop their daily fast-food habits and focus on eating fresh fruits and vegetables; lean meats, poultry and fish; and whole-grain products.
Increase Activity Levels
Kids' activity levels can play a huge role in weight loss efforts. Parents may need to limit television and video games in an effort to get a kid with belly fat off the couch and onto the field or into the gym. Encourage participation in sports activities or simply take the whole family biking or walking to foster some physical activity.
Family Support
Unsurprisingly, children need support from their families to lose weight and fat from their bellies. According to the University of Michigan Health System, overweight kids are more likely to have overweight parents, and the entire family can benefit from an effort to help one child lose belly fat. Eat meals together, and make them healthy. Work with the child to set weight loss goals, and offer praise when they are reached. And make certain your child understands that if the excess weight goes away, the belly fat goes away too.
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