In Part I of the same title, I covered the various causes of childhood obesity. Like me, I believe most of you were surprised to see that there were so many possibilities. In Part II, I will talk about the various options for treating childhood obesity.
#1: Diet
This is a basic control needed and to be expected for weight control. You may have to get a professional dietician or nutritionist to design a suitable, healthy and balance diet for your child.
photo credit: tiffanywashko
#2: Exercise
This is also a basic element required to be implemented in daily life to promote a healthy weight. It is recommended that 30 minutes of aerobic activity daily like running, swimming or cycling be included to burn the extra calories.
photo credit: Jimee, Jackie, Tom & Asha
#3: Changes in lifestyle
If your child is used to eating in front of the television, you may want to change this bad habit by making him eat at table at a fix time everyday. This will promote some control or discipline to his eating time and habit. Modifying his eating habits will help his weight control in the long run.
#4: Useful tips
• Do not use food to offer as a reward or a treat when the child is upset.
• As a wise parent, give encouragement and stress that his self-worth is not attached to his looks or body.
• You can also encourage your child to monitor himself or the food he eats and the exercise he did to promote self-control.
• Limit snacking to healthy food or snacks.