How to Address Childhood Obesity: Recognizing Early Signs and Using a Healthy Diet to Lose Weight
The issue of childhood obesity is relevant in almost every country worldwide. This is why the World Health Organization (WHO) has prioritized clear and competent definitions to determine whether a child is overweight. In collaboration with other non-governmental organizations, the WHO has carried out extensive studies across the globe, examining children of various ages, genders, and social backgrounds.As a result of these studies, tables have been developed that allow parents and medical professionals to compare a child's height and weight with standard norms. These tables also enable assessment of how harmoniously a child is developing, whether they have excess weight or are underweight. These resources are freely available on the WHO website.
Links: http://www.who.int/growthref/who2007_bmi_for_age/en/
http://www.who.int/childgrowth/ru/
Advice:
The WHO tables work well with our unique Parenting Mentor Test. We recommend taking it: together with the tables, it can help you determine whether your child has risk factors for being overweight, whether they are active enough, and how healthy their nutrition and lifestyle are. After you take the Parenting Mentor Test, you'll have sufficient information to accurately interpret the WHO tables or your pediatrician’s advice. With this information, you'll understand the potential reasons for your child’s excess weight and how to help, including recommendations for preventing obesity and avoiding related health risks.
My Child Is Not Overweight! How to Visually Assess Unhealthy Weight in Your Child
- Examine Your Child’s Body
Parents must objectively assess their child’s appearance. Children over age 2 should not develop fatty rolls or folds. While toddlers might have a slight belly, by age six fat should be more evenly distributed for a balanced physique. If your child's stomach protrudes, there are folds under the arms, or the limbs appear fatty, consult a doctor to check for excess weight. - Clothes Not Fit for Age
Notice the clothing sizes you buy for your child. If your child is simply tall, larger sizes are understandable. However, if you repeatedly purchase clothes 2–3 sizes bigger due to tightness, this may indicate issues with weight. - Child’s Attitude Toward Physical Activity
Your child’s level of movement can indicate a weight problem. Children with extra weight may prefer less activity and seem to conserve energy. After running or playing, they may breathe heavily, become flushed, and sweat noticeably. Although medical conditions can also cause these symptoms, a doctor can clarify the cause.
If you suspect your child may be overweight:
- Step One: Take the Test
Solutions:
First, take the unique Parenting Mentor Test, which can help identify any mistakes in parenting that could contribute to your child's weight gain. Based on the results, you'll receive personalized recommendations to help you create an effective strategy to address the problem.
- Step Two: Consult a Healthcare Professional
Consult a pediatrician to confirm your concerns by using body mass and height index charts. The doctor may order further evaluations if necessary. This ensures an accurate diagnosis, identification of causes, and selection of the most suitable treatment plan for overweight. - Step Three: Family Means Togetherness—Overcoming Obesity with Family Support
A major misstep is when parents try to fight a child’s weight through strict bans and constant control. This makes the child feel trapped and monitored, leading to resentment, stress, and lost motivation.
- Remove sweets and fast food from your home. Don’t expect your child to refuse these foods on their own. Accept that baked goods, sweets, and fast food no longer belong in your house.
- Work with your child to select a physical activity. Don’t force a specific sport on them; allow your child to choose. This boosts both interest and motivation.
- Decide as a family how to spend evenings and weekends. Instead of sitting in front of the TV with pizza, try playing ball outside or taking family walks. The key is to move together for at least 30 minutes.
- Regulate sleep and rest schedules. Adequate sleep, appropriate for your child’s age, is essential for healthy metabolism.
- Address social factors. You may need to help your child make new friends who are active or provide a bike so your child can ride to school instead of taking the bus.
- Parents might need to rearrange their schedules, setting aside time to exercise with their child, fostering more activity for everyone.
- Always follow medical advice and prescriptions.
- Be attentive to your child’s challenges.
- Adopt a healthy diet as a family.
- Engage in regular sports or active games together.
- Ensure adequate sleep.
- Avoid making fun of anyone’s weight, even strangers. Don’t dwell on the issue or be judgmental.