Family & Education

How To Fight Childhood Obesity

Nine million U.S. kids are obese. But thanks to growing awareness, childhood obesity appears to be reaching a plateau. Here's how to fight fat and help your kids stay healthy. Enlarge

How To Fight Childhood Obesity

Nine million U.S. kids are obese. But thanks to growing awareness, childhood obesity appears to be reaching a plateau. Here's how to fight fat and help your kids stay healthy.

Step 1: Recognize The Causes

Fattening convenience foods, video games, TV and a general lack of physical activity all contribute to childhood obesity. Kids learn these habits from their parents.

Step 2: Fight Fast Food

Burgers, fries, chicken nuggets, sugary cereals, sweet soda and even fruit juice can pack on the pounds. Opt for whole, fresh foods instead.

Step 3: Less Is More

Serve smaller portions of healthful food. Encourage your kids to stop eating when they feel full.

Step 4: It's About The Fun

Kids' parties are often centered around food. Make it about fun activities instead.

Step 5: Get Moving

Physical activity does not have to mean competitive sports. Walking, biking, kicking a ball around or even active games like "hide and seek" teach kids that exercise can be fun.