Overweight Children
Need Special Loving

Overweight children experience many health related issues while still young, and even more as adults. It's a well documented fact that children who are overweight or obese are much more likely to become overweight or obese adults. But children who are too heavy according to the body mass index (BMI) formula need to lose weight in childhood, and not wait until they are grown.

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At one time it was generally believed that children should not have to go on a "diet" and lose weight. The common saying was, "He/She still has baby fat." But a child that has too much body fat, according to their height and body type, is not carrying baby fat. The child is overweight and likely to suffer the consequences that attend excess weight.

Children that are overweight or obese often experience both physical and psychological effects, as a matter of fact. Though parents love their children equally, it's not unusual for them to discover they need to soothe hurt feelings and rebuild damaged self-esteem more often in their overweight children. Unfortunately the world can be quite cruel to those children who are overweight, because other children can be critical and even verbally abusive.

Fast Track to Weight Gain

Children whose BMI is over the 95th percentile for their age group are considered to be overweight. When a child is determined to be overweight, it's time for the parents to begin a weight loss program. Children, like adults, should not be put on a "diet" per se. Instead, the best way to lose weight is through a program that combines healthy eating habits and increased activity.

One of the main causes of childhood obesity is fast food. A single meal from a hamburger restaurant chain can equal more than a whole day's supply of calories. Aggravating the situation is the fact that most of the calories are unhealthy. French fries, milk shakes and fried apple pies are sure to put weight on anyone. There are also vending machines everywhere full of fat and sugar loaded snacks.

Poor diets at home and at school have contributed to children becoming overweight also. Quick fix prepared meals served on the run are a formula for weight gain. Many children spend their hours before and after dinner sitting before a computer or using hand held electronic devices designed to play games. Afternoon sports events and impromptu games with friends at the local parks are becoming more and more infrequent.

Helping overweight children lose their excess pounds requires lifestyle changes. Parents should work closely with their children to teach them about healthy food choices. They should find ways to increase their kids' physical activity. Parents should also serve as role models by maintaining a healthy weight and living a healthy lifestyle.

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It's Not Baby Fat Anymore  Not rated yet
I am a bit ashamed but have to admit that I am one of those who gave the "it's just baby fat" excuse. As parents we want the best for our kids and we always ...

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