If your child is overweight or obese, helping them get to a healthy weight is one of the best things you can do for them now and in the future. But whats the right way to do it? That usually depends on your childs age.
Theres no single number on the scale that all kids must reach to be healthy. The right range depends on how tall they are, their gender, and their age. In fact, many children shouldnt actually lose weight -- they should just maintain it as they grow taller or put on pounds more slowly. But if they have more severe obesity, espeically if they have obesity-related health conditions, your child's pediatrician may make a different recommendation.
How can you tell if your child needs to slim down? Talk to their health care provider. They can help you come up with a safe plan. Also, some expert advice may help you know what to focus on to help your child reach a healthy weight, no matter their age.
Goal: In most cases, kids at these ages should stay at the same weight or gain it at a slower rate. If the child has more severe obesity, their doctor may have other advice.
What you can do: When kids are very young, youre in charge of their routine. Make sure your childs day includes plenty of time -- at least 60 minutes -- to be active, whether its climbing the jungle gym at the park, playing tag in the backyard, or jumping around in the living room. They dont have to get their exercise all at once. Short bursts of activity throughout the day that add up to an hour are just fine.
At meal and snack times, offer them a variety of nutritious choices. Your child -- and the whole family -- can eat healthier with a few simple steps:
Goal: In most cases, stay at the same weight or gain it at a slower rate. But ifthe child has more severe obesity, your child's doctor may make another recommendation.
What you can do: Kids at these ages have opinions of their own. But they still need help from parents. Nows the time to give your child the tools and lessons they need to make healthy choices throughout life. The following strategies can help:
Goal: Many kids need to stay at the same weight or gain it at a slower rate as they grow taller. After puberty, your child may be able to lose up to 1 or 2 pounds a week. Speak with their doctor to decide whats right for them.
Remember that more time moving will probably mean spending less time with video games or smartphones. Help your teen keep their screen use to a minimum. One great way: Put your own devices away and get active together.
SOURCES:
George Datto, MD, pediatrician and chief of pediatric weight management division, Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children.
Natalie Muth, MD, pediatrician and registered dietitian.
Mollie Greves Grow, MD, pediatrician, Seattle Childrens Hospital; associate professor of pediatrics, University of Washington.
American Heart Association: Overweight in Children.
Frontiers in Pediatrics: Picky Eating in Children.
Appetite: Effects of restriction on childrens intake differ by child temperament, food reinforcement, and parents chronic use of restriction.
Eating and Weight Disorders: 'Dont Eat So Much: How Parent Comments Relate to Female Weight Satisfaction.
Pediatrics: Is Frequency of Shared Family Meals Related to the Nutritional Health of Children and Adolescents?
CDC: How Much Physical Activity Do Children Need?
UpToDate: "Prevention and management of childhood obesity in the primary care setting."
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Weight Loss Strategies for Overweight Kids - WebMD
