Weight Issues in Children

How do I know if my child is overweight?

Your doctor will use a chart to find out if your child is overweight. If your child is heavier than 95% of other children who are the same age and height, he or she is considered to be overweight.

How can I teach my child better eating habits?

Weight problems can be very hard to fix, so it's important to try and prevent the problem if possible. Here are some tips to help keep your child at a healthy weight:

* Provide a healthy diet for your child. Determine how many calories your child should eat, and read the Nutrition Facts Label when eating packaged food. In general, be sure to provide plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Your family doctor or a dietitian can answer any questions you have about what to feed your child.
* Get the whole family to start eating a healthier diet, so your child won't feel alone and will have role models to look up to.
* Eat meals and snacks at the table, not in front of the TV, to decrease the likelihood of overeating.
* Try not to make your child eat when he or she isn't hungry--it's okay if you child does not eat everything on his or her plate at every meal.
* Try not to use food to comfort or to reward your child.
* Try not to offer dessert as a reward for finishing a meal. Doing this teaches your child to value sweets more than other foods.
* Fast food is typically very high in calories, saturated fat and trans fat, so try to limit visits to fast-food restaurants to only once per week.
* Limit how much TV your child watches. Try to get your child to do something active instead, such as riding a bicycle or participating in a sport he or she enjoys.
* Spend time being active with your child--go on family walks and play outdoor games together whenever you can.
* Be a good role model--make sure that you are making healthy food choices and incorporating exercise into your life, too!


If my child is overweight now, will he or she always have a weight problem?

Not all heavy children have weight problems as adults. However, as children get older, their risk for remaining overweight increases. The risk is even higher if one or both parents are also overweight. If your child is overweight, it is important to deal with the issue sooner rather than later.


Could my child's weight problem be caused by a hormonal imbalance?
Most overweight children do not have a hormone imbalance. Children with a hormone imbalance grow slower than other children and they often have other symptoms, such as fatigue, constipation or dry skin. If your child has these symptoms, talk with your doctor.


How can I help my child lose weight?
The best way for your child to lose weight is to eat healthier and to exercise more. As a parent, you can help your child do both. Be patient--it may take some time. Don't limit how much food your child can eat. Instead, offer food that is healthier, such as fruits and vegetables. At the same time, don't put too much focus on his or her weight. Make sure you praise your child for his or her strengths, to build self-esteem.

How can I help my child get more physical activity?

* One of the best things you can do for your child is to limit TV time. Instead, suggest playing tag, having foot races, skating and playing other active games. Encourage your child to join school and community sports teams. Take the whole family on walks and bike rides whenever possible.
* By encouraging physical activity and involving the whole family, your child is more likely to continue an active lifestyle as he or she matures

Can medicine help my child lose weight?
No diet medications are safe for children.