Saturday, October 4, 2014

Things Parents Can Do Help Their Children From Becoming Overweight Or Obese

By Asleen Saturday


The rate of childhood obesity is increasing at an alarming rate, so much so that it has become an epidemic. This serious issue is something that any parent needs to be aware of. How come we're seeing so many children becoming overweight?

The reasons aren't any different from the reasons why millions of adults today are overweight or obese. It all boils down to how much a person eats relative to how much physical activity the person gets. There are many things that parents like you can do to ensure that your child doesn't end up overweight or obese.

While eating healthy habits are what you want your child to develop, it won't do you any good really if you get way too strict on the food that you allow your child to consume. If you completely forbid some of your child's favorite foods, it will create a craving and a feeling of deprivation. Your child is a lot more likely to start binge eating, as he or she will find ways to eat forbidden foods.

The bottled or canned fruit juices sold these days are juice concentrates, high in calories and sugar, and hardly contains real fruit. Water remains the best drink for your child and even for you. Herbal teas, either hot or iced, are another healthy and low calorie alternative. You can probably let your child drink soda still, but it should be an occasional drink and not a daily one. Healthy, low-calorie snacks are better for your child if he or she is to prevent or reverse a weight problem. Kids often get into the habit of snacking on candy, chips and other unhealthy foods. There are many healthier alternatives, such as fruit, nuts, yogurt, carrots and celery. Your child won't like this change in snacking but it's important that you maintain your focus. Be patient and be persistent because your child will eventually develop a taste for healthy foods. Rather than including a bar of chocolate in your child's lunch for him or her to snack on, try putting a bag of trail mix.

There are parents who become so frustrated with their children that they wind up dealing with their children's weight problem negatively. Criticisms and insults won't help your child get to a healthy weight. Harsh words are only going to cause your child's self-esteem to plummet. It's much better for your child if he or she sees you being positive and encouraging. When your child eats something healthy or is active, praise him or her. If you take a constructive approach to modifying your child's behavior, you'll be met with much success. Explain why it's important to exercise and eat healthy foods. Encourage kids to eat better and exercise by coming up with rewards that don't involve food, such as a fun outing.

If your child is overweight, you should be concerned but you shouldn't feel powerless. You've read several things you can try to help your child be healthy. Don't hesitate to talk to a pediatrician if you're not quite sure if your child has a weight problem or if his or her weight gain is just a normal part of his or her development. If a child is overweight or obese, remember that the problem took some time to develop and will take some time to solve.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment