Finding the Right Child Weight Loss Program

With the increasing problems on child obesity, parents are beginning to look for more effective child weight loss program. However, not every child weight loss program can be effective since each child has different needs. Here are some tips to help you find the right weight loss program for your child.

Why you need a child weight loss program

If your child is obese, they are at a higher risk for health problems like heart diseases, diabetes, musculoskeletal ailments, asthma, and even cancer. Furthermore, they have a greater chance of remaining obese for the rest of their lives, and can even develop self-esteem and self-image problems. This doesn't just affect their physical health and appearance, but also the way they relate to themselves and the people around them.

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The numbers

Children need a specific amount of calories everyday to give them energy for their activities, such as breathing and walking. For boys, the recommended amount is 2000 calories a day for ages 7 to 10, 2500 calories for 11 to 14, and 3000 calories for 15 to 18. Girls, on the other hand, need 2000 calories if they are 7 to 10 years old and 2200 calories if they are 11 to 18 years old. However, these numbers are only estimated amounts, so you should still consult your doctor to find the right numbers for your child.

Some children may need more or fewer calories, depending on their metabolism. Children need more calories if they have a fast metabolism, and less if they have it slow. Fast or slow metabolism can run in the family, so they may be more at risk if you have obese relatives.

Food restriction

Part of an effective child weight loss program involves restricting certain types of foods, especially those that contain too much carbohydrates or fats. Examples include sweets, meat, junk food and fast food. Occasional treats are fine, but don't make a habit of taking them to a burger joint every week.

Your diet can be suitable for your child

Some parents believe that their weight loss program can also benefit their children. While Atkins and South Beach may benefit you, they may not be suitable for your child. Fortunately, these weight loss programs along with many others can be modified to fit your child's health and calorie needs. Your doctor can help you modify an existing plan to suit your child's needs.

What to avoid

A doctor would never prescribe weight loss drugs to your child unless there is no other choice. Therefore, you should avoid buying weight loss drugs for your child because their ingredients are most likely unsuitable for the child's body and can cause even greater side effects. If you think your child needs one, consult your doctor first.

Weight loss programs

Here are a few examples of weight loss programs that can be modified to fit your child's health and weight loss needs:

1. Atkins diet - This can actually be modified into a child weight loss program with the help of dietary or nutritional experts and your child's physician. This diet involves the consumption of foods with less carbohydrates, fats, flour, and sugar.

2. South Beach diet - Your child needs the necessary calories for energy from particular foods, and this weight loss program involves the consumption of enough good carbs and good fats that your child needs to go about their daily activities.

3. Mediterranean diet - Inspired by the eating patterns of Mediterranean countries like Southern Italy and Greece, this weight loss program can be modified for children to learn how to eat fruits, vegetables, wheat, cereal, and fish. This is also good for teaching them the benefits of eating healthier foods.

Get medical advice

One child weight loss program can have different effects for each child. It is best for parents to take their child to a physician for a check-up. This is necessary especially if the child is already obese or nearing obesity, or is already experiencing health problems.

The physical examination

Weighing your child is part of the doctor's examination before they can determine the right child weight loss program for them. Then, the doctor is going to determine the BMI, the weight of your child's body fat and muscle, and their water weight. The doctor is going to perform an evaluation on your child's weight and overall health condition and then they are going to recommend the right weight loss program for them.