Obesity in Children: How Can You Help Your Obese Child?

Obesity has been a problem worldwide not only with adults but with kids as well. In fact, the number of obese kids ages 6 to 11 worldwide is rapidly increasing. This is a clear proof that they are not eating a well-balanced diet. 

Children with their young age can develop life-threatening illnesses due to obesity. It might be because of different reasons like eating foods that are less nutritious, not having enough exercises daily and other inappropriate eating habits. Parents are expected to be responsible for guiding their children about their health. Setting as a good example is the perfect method to teach them what to do. 

Here are some healthy tips that you can do together with your kid to encourage them to remain healthy, to prevent obesity, and to minimize their body weight.

Monitor what your child eats...

The main factor that contributes to child obesity is improper food intake. Once you notice that your child is gaining too much weight, take a closer look at the foods he eats at home and in school. It might be that he eats less nutritious foods in school while you are trying your best to give him only nutritious ones at home. 

It does not mean that if your child is obese, you have to let him eat less, either. Kids are naturally very hyperactive and they use up large amounts of their energy daily and they need food to have enough energy. You just have to monitor the food that your child eats. Make sure that he will take in an adequate amount of vitamins, minerals, and calories daily. 

The quantity of calorie needed by the body varies according to their ages and activities. For this, you have to check with a dietician or a doctor. There must also be a balance of the carbohydrates, protein, and fats intake. Foods like beans, chicken, and nuts are the perfect sources of protein. As for carbohydrates, give your child vegetables, whole grains, and fresh fruits. Healthy fats are needed by his body as well. Good sources of healthy fats are fish, olive oil, and nuts.

Motivate your child to exercise...

Exercise plays a big role in maintaining your kid’s good health. Doing exercises regularly like jogging or walking is advisable. Convince your child to join sports or other activities that involve physical movements. Performing exercises that can strengthen the muscles can help develop lean and strong muscles, prevent obesity, and melt away excess body fats.

Teach your child about proper hygiene...

Proper hygiene should always be observed at home or wherever your child is. Make it a routine for him to have his hands washed first prior to eating anything. Washing the hands regularly especially before mealtime can help avoid contamination and the spread of diseases caused by harmful bacteria. Moreover, hand washing can also help avoid getting infections due to irritants that your kids might have got while playing.

Also, oblige your children to brush their teeth before sleeping or after meal.

Few last words...

As early as childhood, explain carefully and let your child understand why it is very essential to stay healthy all the time. However, you have to keep in mind not to just bump into your kids’ head right away. Instead, be a role model and admit to your healthy habits rules. As a responsible parent, you also need to practice proper hygiene, healthy lifestyle and proper eating habit.

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