PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR PARENTS TACKLING CHILDHOOD OBESITY

KidsHealth offers sensible suggestions for how to help keep children healthy and active.

Wilmington, DE,(PRWEB)September 15, 2003 -- The number of overweight kids and teens in the United States has nearly doubled since the 1960's. Today, more than 15% of children between the ages of 6 and 19 are overweight. Fast food isn't going away, nor is the allure of TV, instant messaging, and other inactive diversions. So what's a parent to do? KidsHealth.org, the most visited health website written for parents, kids, and teens, offers realistic tips for parents trying to keep their children healthy and active.

Overweight and obese children are at risk for serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol all once considered exclusively adult issues. They're also prone to low self-esteem that stems from being teased, bullied, or socially rejected by their peers.

The key to keeping kids of all ages at a healthy weight is taking a whole-family approach,¡¨ explains pediatrician Neil Izenberg, MD, editor-in-chief of KidsHealth. It's the "practice what you preach" mentality. Parents need to make eating and exercise a family affair and, of course, lead by example. Try watching less television and playing outside with your kids. If you help them feel good about themselves and build their confidence, they will begin to make healthier choices.¨

The medical experts of KidsHealth remind parents not to fall into some common food/eating behavior traps:

Don't reward your child for good behavior or try to stop bad behavior with sweets or treats. Come up with other solutions to modify your child's behavior.

Don't maintain a "clean-plate policy". Be aware of your child's hunger cues. Even babies who turn away from the bottle or breast send signals that they are full. If kids are satisfied, they shouldn't be forced to continue eating. Reinforce the idea that your child should only eat when hungry.

Don't talk about "bad foods" or completely eliminate all sweets and favorite snacks from an overweight child's menu. Children may rebel and overeat these forbidden foods outside the home or sneak them in on their own.

KidsHealth offers these tips and suggestions for parents to help keep their children healthy and fit:

- Limit the amount of extra sugar your infant gets, particularly in drinks. Instead of lots of juice, offer water when your baby is thirsty.

- Start good eating habits as early as age 2. Encourage your child to eat healthy foods and only to eat when hungry.

- Make foods fun and try to eat meals together as often as possible.

- Help your child to be physically active every day. A pick up game of soccer or playing in a community sports league are great ways to stay fit. At home, try walking as a family to the park or playing in the yard. Taking regular walks together also provides a chance for conversation.

- Even basic household chores like vacuuming, washing the car, and raking the leaves burn calories, so make sure your child is involved with these activities, too.

- As your child grows, fast-food joints seem to have greater appeal. Try to steer your child toward healthier choices like grilled chicken sandwiches and salads and don¡¦t ¡§super size¡¨ meals.

- Limit TV, computer, and video game time, and discourage eating in front of the television.

- Offer healthy snacks like carrots or celery with peanut butter instead of chips. Visit www.KidsHealth.org for healthy recipes.

- Make certain your child eats a nutritionally balanced breakfast every day.

Finally, let your child know you love him or her regardless of weight. Ultimately, you want your child to grow up happy and healthy. And remember to be a role model for your child: eat well and exercise and your child will, too!

For more information on eating healthy, exercise, and obesity, visit www.KidsHealth.org or AOL Keyword: KidsHealth.org.

###

To arrange an interview with one of our 400 pediatric subspecialists:

Phone: (302) 651-4106

Fax: (302) 651-4077

Email: santoro@KidsHealth.org