Is your child overweight?

Many parents with overweight or obese children misinterpret their child's weight, believing it is either a healthy weight or just baby weight. According to the latest childhood obesity statistics from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, "an estimated 16 percent of children and adolescents ages 6-19 years are overweight." A parent's failure to recognize that their child is overweight is putting their child at risk for associated health issues.

Children who are overweight are at a greater risk of developing the following health conditions at a young age: 

- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (fatty liver)
- Adult obesity
- Poor self esteem

*** Type 1 diabetes is usually caused by genetic factors

How do you know if your child is overweight?
Calculating your child's BMI (Body Mass Index) is a good way to determine if your child is overweight, underweight, or at a healthy weight. To calculate your child's BMI, simply follow this formula: [weight / (height x height)] x 703.

Should you put your child on a diet? 
Parents with an overweight child should encourage healthy eating habits instead of putting him or her on a diet. Sometimes just changing the kinds of foods you stock your home with can produce significant results. 

Simple ideas to help your child stay in control of their weight:
  • Physical activity for at least 60 minutes a day
  • Eating well balanced meals with the correct portion sizes
  • Limit time spent watching television, on the computer, and playing video games to less than two hours a day
  • Get a good night sleep; the amount of sleep a child needs varies with age
  • Determine the daily calorie intake your child needs
If you are concerned about your child's weight, talk with your pediatrician and have your child evaluated and put on a healthy path!

How do you encourage your children to live a healthy life?

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