How to Prevent Obesity in Infants

Obesity is a primary public health concern. The problem often begins in infancy. Overweight infants have an increased risk of becoming overweight adolescents and adults. Obesity is linked to diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Parents can take steps during pregnancy and during a child's early years to prevent obesity.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Start before birth. Excessive maternal weight gain, untreated gestational diabetes and smoking during pregnancy are risk factors for infant obesity. Prenatal care is essential to monitor infant development including weight.
2. Breast feed. By late infancy, breast fed infants usually weigh less than formula fed infants. Formula fed infants eat more frequently. Formula is sweeter than breast milk. Formula may be associated with an affinity for sweets in later years.
3. Assess before feeding. When an infant cries between feedings, it's tempting to comfort him with food. To prevent obesity, look for other explanations. A cry may indicate a desire for a pacifier, for water or to be held.
4. Regulate feedings. To prevent obesity, feed an infant no more than once every 3 hours. Modify feedings to three meals a day when an infant reaches 6 months of age.
5. Allow unfinished feedings. Infants know when they feel full. Forcing an infant who is full to continue feeding promotes obesity.
6. Restrict sweets. It's tempting to use them as rewards. Instead use verbal praise and nonfood items. Reserve candy and other sugary foods for special occasions. Keeping sweets out of the daily diet of an infant helps prevent obesity in later years.

Tips & Warnings

• If infant obesity is a concern, consult a pediatrician. Don't withhold necessary feedings. Adequate nutrition is essential for brain development and growth.