Low self esteem is the most immediate consequence of being overweight or obese. These children tend to suffer from depression and loneliness and can also face discrimination and are more likely to become suicidal.
Overweight children, as compared to children with a healthy weight, are more likely to develop many health problems such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which are associated with heart disease in adults. Type 2 diabetes, previously considered an adult disease, has increased dramatically in overweight children and adolescents.
What Can Parents Do?
- Obese children need a thorough medical evaluation by a pediatrician to consider the possibility of a physical cause.
- In the absence of a physical disorder, the only way to lose weight is to reduce the number of calories being eaten and to increase the child's or adolescent's level of physical activity.
- Emphasize healthy eating, keep fatty and sugary snacks to a minimum and keep fruits, vegetables and low-fat snacks available
- Increase physical activity, perhaps by taking a few brisk walks with your child each week.
In addition to these recommendations, parents can help lessen the psychological stress that results from being overweight or obese by discussing the issue. If your child is overeating, it’s likely that he or she is depressed. Have an open dialogue with your child about his or her weight problem; this will make is easier to develop strategies for coping with it - not to mention alternative approaches to solving depression.
Parents can also talk to their children about personal appearance and how they feel about themselves. Highlight the qualities that make your child special - different, and always make it a habit to praise your children.
Finally, parents should also serve as role models for their kids. The whole family should practice healthy eating habits and engage in physical activity as a unit. If you as a parent are not healthy on a mental and physical level, then you cannot expect your children to be, either.
