The prevalence of childhood obesity among children increased from 6.5 percent in 1980 to 19.6 percent in 2008, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obesity is the result of too many calories consumed and not enough calories expended. An overweight child is much more likely to become an overweight or obese adult. A change in lifestyle, healthy eating habits and daily physical activity can help an overweight child lose weight.
Pack Their Lunch
Lunches served in school cafeterias may be one of the causes for your child to be overweight. According to a study done by Daniel Millimet, PhD, professor of economics at Southern Methodist University, many schools are not complying with federal guidelines. His study found that 10 to 35 percent of schools do not supply their students with low-fat lunches. A la carte options such as ice cream and sodas are readily available to your children. By packing their lunch for them you can control what and how much they eat each day.
After-School Activities
With the advances in technology, overweight children usually spend their time indoors watching television, playing video games or spending time on the computer. Instead encourage them to join after-school programs such as joining a sports team. If they are hesitant there are other options for increasing their activity levels. According to the CDC, children should be getting 60 minutes or more of physical activity each day. This could be simply walking or running outside with friends, swimming or playing hide-and-seek.
Include the Family
An overweight child usually gets his eating habits from his family. This would be a good time to give you and your family's lifestyle a makeover. It will be easier for your child to improve the foods he consumes, if the entire family was involved. Have your child come with you to the grocery store and teach him to choose nutritious foods and how to spot unhealthy options. Stock the house with healthy foods and have your family sit down every evening for dinner to promote togetherness.
Avoid Diets
It may be tempting to put your child on a diet; however, this may not be the best route for her. Diets do not promote long-term results. Many fad diets include very low calories, eliminating food groups or special pills or powders. It is best to avoid these types of diets and instead choose a well-balanced diet that includes lean proteins, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
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