Question
A 7-year-old boy, in elementary school. Recently, it has been observed that the child is getting fatter and has a larger appetite than most children, and usually does not like to eat vegetables. How should obesity and a dislike for vegetables in a child be treated?
Answer
For the child’s obesity, it is recommended to increase physical activity and control diet to alleviate symptoms. Suggest having the child engage in age-appropriate sports such as swimming and jogging; consume more high-fiber vegetables like winter melon and tomatoes, and reduce intake of high-calorie foods like cookies, macadamias, and small cakes; avoid overeating in the child and encourage more physical activity. If the child’s obesity is severe, seek medical attention promptly for professional treatment and do not treat blindly.