How to Treat a Child Who is Overweight and Lacks Exercise

Question

A 9-year-old boy, in elementary school, has been noticed to be gaining weight over the past few weeks. He also has a very large appetite and prefers to lie down after eating. How should one treat a child who is overweight and lacks exercise?

Answer

Changing a child’s obesity requires fostering a love for exercise and avoiding picky eating. Start with activities like jogging, hill climbing, and swimming, and encourage the consumption of foods such as cucumbers, tomatoes, and kiwis. Avoid high-calorie foods such as cakes and macadamias. Also, help correct bad habits like not moving after eating or being picky. If the above methods do not alleviate your child’s obesity symptoms, seek medical advice promptly to avoid the condition worsening.