(Image source from: Freepik.com)

Childhood obesity is a global problem that has multiple impacts now and in the future. According to a March 2024 report from the World Health Organization, "by 2022, more than 390 million children and adolescents aged 5 to 19 years worldwide will be overweight, including obesity." Several factors contribute to obesity, including high consumption of soft drinks, Sweet drinks and fast food However, this problem can be effectively solved by changing your diet, changing your lifestyle and exercising regularly. Dr. Sriram shares tips on treating and preventing obesity in children.

Promote nutritious eating habits: A nutritious diet is important to combat obesity. More emphasis should be placed on a variety of child-friendly foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats. It is recommended to avoid foods that contain a lot of sugar and fat, as these can lead to obesity or worsen the condition of obese people. Teaching children about nutrition and nutrient-dense foods and involving them in food preparation activities can help children learn more about nutrition and promote healthy eating habits.

Encourage regular physical activity: Regular physical activity is essential to maintaining a healthy weight and exercising effectively. Encourage children to do at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day, such as cycling, swimming, playing sports, or walking. Reduce screen time and encourage active gaming and running. Involve the whole family in the process to make physical activity fun and keep children active.

Promote a supportive environment: Creating a supportive home environment is important to prevent childhood obesity. Set realistic expectations for your children, encourage goal setting, and celebrate small successes. Focus on your health and not your weight. Families need to adopt healthier habits together to support each other.

Education and Empowerment: Raising awareness among children and parents is key to combating childhood obesity. Integrate nutrition and physical activity education into children's lives. Involve children in decisions about diet and physical activity to encourage healthier choices.

Seek help from professionals: If your child's obesity becomes severe, seek help from a doctor, nutritionist, or child psychologist. We offer individual consultations and can create a program tailored to your child's needs, taking health complications into account to increase sustainability.

By adopting principles such as eating a nutritious diet, limiting unhealthy foods, exercising regularly, and reducing screen time, parents and children can lay a foundation for good health. Effective weight control in children requires a comprehensive approach that includes healthy nutrition, physical activity, a supportive environment, education and professional support. These tips can help parents support their child's healthy weight management and lay the foundation for a healthy life.