Question
A 10-year-old boy, now in elementary school, has been gaining weight significantly over the past year. He also has an increased appetite recently and is unwilling to exercise. How should parents treat pediatric obesity when the child dislikes exercise?
Answer
For children with obvious symptoms of obesity, parents should encourage them to engage in more physical activities, avoid picky eating, and supervise them in doing aerobic exercises such as jogging and swimming. In terms of diet, consume more high-fiber vegetables like winter melon and tomatoes, and absolutely avoid high-calorie foods such as cakes, potato chips, and cola. Also, prevent the child from overeating habitually. During the treatment period, parents should pay attention to their child’s condition, and if symptoms are severe, they should take the child to the hospital for further examination and treatment.