Ways to Help Your Overweight Child

Rising obesity rates have become a national epidemic in America. Family history, inactivity, and poor food habits all contribute to childhood weight problems. If you are the parent of an overweight teen, it's important to be aware of his or her increased risk for engaging in unhealthy weight control behaviors. When children gain too much weight, this can increase their risk for some disease, such as cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, and diabetes.

Parents should try not to set children apart because of their weight, but focus on gradually changing their family's physical activity and eating habits.

Tips For Parents

• - You should also be involved in the evaluation and counseling so that you can carry through with the advice that will help you and your child.
• - Offer your child a wide variety of foods, such as grains, vegetables and fruits, low-fat dairy products, and lean meat or beans.
• - Find ways to encourage more exercise and outdoor activity.
• - Encourage your child to avoid chewing gum.