How to Put Your Child on a Diet
Although childhood obesity is becoming a national epidemic, you can use several strategies to help your child overcome a weight problem and lead a healthy life.
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Keep your kids happy, healthy, and safe with the advice in these Howcast videos.
You Will Need
- Healthy foods
- Activities that promote exercise
- Scheduled eating times
- Professional help (optional)
Steps
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Always consult a physician before attempting any exercise or exercise plan.
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Step 1
Focus on healthy foods
Focus on healthy foods rather than putting your child on a strict diet. Eliminate high-calorie fillers and substitute healthy foods, such as raw vegetables in place of fried foods.
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Seek professional help if your child has an eating disorder or is obese.
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Step 2
Keep your child active
Plan activities that keep your child moving and physically engaged such as summer camp, karate class, dancing, or sports.
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Step 3
Share healthy dinners
Share a balanced meal as a family and then shift to a fun activity like playing a game or going for a walk.
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Limit sedentary time with the TV, video games, and computers to a few hours a day.
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Step 4
Make a schedule
Institute regular meal and snack times and restrict all-day snacking.
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Step 5
Be a role model
Eat right and exercise and your child will more easily adopt a healthy lifestyle by following your lead.
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Did you know? One study found that 25 percent of obese adults were overweight as children.
