How to Prevent Childhood Obesity

One in four children are at risk of becoming overweight or are already overweight, and this number is rising. 40% of food ads on TV are aimed at kids. Preschool is where primary prevention begins with parents as role models. Here are some steps to help prevent childhood obesity

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• self motivation
• a child

1. Encourage your child to eat slow and to stop eating when they are full regardless if their plate is empty. It takes about 20 minutes for the body to recognize that it is full. You should never force a child to clean their plate
2. If the child wants a second helping have them go play for about 20 minutes. If they are still hungry give them more food.
3. Help your child to pick lower fat snacks and proper proportions of each food. Keep healthy snack choices such as fruits and vegetables available and with-in eyesight. Children are more likely to want what they can see
4. Encourage physical activity for the whole family. One great idea is a family walk after dinner. Even ten minutes a day can greatly decrease the risk of obesity

Tips & Warnings

• Remember, children model their eating patterns after their parents. If you eat healthy, your child will learn to make healthy choices
• Never isolate an overweight child or tie self worth to weight. The whole family should eat the same meals. An overweight child should never be forced to eat a restricted diet while the rest of the family eats whatever they choose.