There is nothing more hard hitting than seeing your preteen child being overweight. The extra weight that kids put up at an early age is something that most parents ignore. And this where they go wrong. The extra kilos are a sign of obesity. There needs to be an immediate action taken to stop it, if not then it is the start many dangerous diseases like asthma, BP and diabetes. However many of the parents are genuinely not aware of causes of obesity and ways to prevent it. Thus, here are few tips on how to live a healthy lifestyle and break from the clutches of obesity- 1. Provide nutritious meals and snacks: Healthy meals and snacks provide nutrition for growing bodies while modeling healthy eating behavior and attitudes. Focus on balanced nutrition - fruits, vegetables, grains and lean meats. Establish daily meal and snack times, and plan family meals as frequently as possible. Plan sensible portions. 2. Encourage kids to exercise regularly: Physical activity reduces health risks and helps weight management. Participate in family exercises and games on a regular basis, such as walks, running, swimming, and active games and sports. This is an exciting and interesting way of involving inactive kids to step out of the house. Exercise keeps kids moving which burns calories, builds strong muscles, and prevents putting on unnecessary weight. 3. Be a role model: Make sure that you eat healthy foods and exercise regularly to maintain your weight before you set out to do the same with your child. Don't expect your child to do something you are unwilling to do for yourself. Parents who make an attempt to eat well-balanced and nutritious meals have a positive impact on young ones who always try to emulate their parents. 4. Provide 5-6 smaller and frequent meals: Instead of fixing 3 big meals a day like breakfast, lunch and dinner, it is healthier to administer 5 to 6 smaller meals. Smaller and frequent meals control body's blood sugar. This in turn, controls the cravings for unhealthy simple carbohydrates like cakes, cookies and chocolates, keeping the weight under check. 5. Educate your child: Help your child understand that some foods are unhealthy and lead to poor body image and ill health. Explain to him/her the harmful effects of eating these foods like cakes, cookies, chocolates, etc on a regular basis. However, don't deprive them of occasional treats, which will make them more receptive to your good advice.
