Question
My son is 4 years old, and recently, I’ve noticed that he has been getting chubbier. Additionally, he eats more than most children his age and doesn’t like to go out to play. How should we treat and manage obesity and lazy behavior in children?
Answer
Childhood obesity can initially be managed by increasing the child’s physical activity level and controlling their diet to alleviate symptoms. Gradually increase the child’s exercise intensity, such as by running slowly, adding a little distance each time. At the same time, encourage the child to eat more foods like cucumbers, tomatoes, and kiwis, while avoiding high-calorie, high-fat foods such as hamburgers, French fries, and cookies. Moreover, avoid allowing the child to snack in bed or lie down immediately after eating, as these bad habits can also lead to fat accumulation. If parents notice that the situation is severe during treatment, they must take their child to the hospital for further examination and treatment.