How to Manage Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity is a growing concern worldwide, and Dubai is no exception. we are committed to helping parents manage their child’s weight in a healthy, sustainable manner. Childhood obesity can have serious long-term consequences on a child’s health, including an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and psychological issues.

"Obesity is not a lifestyle problem. A lot of it is driven by the underlying biology,"

No physician should ever stigmatize children or imply that they are to blame for their weight.

Types of Obesity:

The clinicians should calculate a child's BMI beginning at age 2 years, with particular attention to those at the 85th percentile or higher for their age and sex (which would be defined as overweight), at the 95th percentile or higher (obesity), or at the 120th percentile and higher (severe obesity).

How do I Calculate my BMI?

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a person's weight in kilograms (or pounds) divided by the square of height in meters (or feet).

weight (kg) / [height (m)]²

[weight (kg) / height (cm) / height (cm)] x 10,000

Or you can use any BMI calculator on line.

Starting at age 6, providers should interview patients and their families about what would motivate them to lose weight, then tailor interventions to those factors.
Some of these interventions will focus on diet, exercise, and emotional well-being.

If the previous interventions did not work, the new obesity guidance include Weight-loss medications or bariatric surgeries as needed once children reach age 12 or 13-year-old.

Childhood obesity can be effectively managed. Here’s a guide to help you make positive changes in your child’s life.

1. Develop a Healthy Diet Plan

Nutrition plays a critical role in managing childhood obesity. It’s important to create a balanced diet plan that provides the nutrients your child needs while limiting excessive calorie intake.

Practical Tips:

Focus on Whole Foods: Encourage your child to eat whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Minimize processed foods high in sugar, fat, and calories.
Portion Control: Teach your child about portion sizes. Using smaller plates and serving appropriate portions can prevent overeating.
Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks: Reduce or eliminate sugary drinks such as sodas and juices. Opt for water or low-fat milk instead.
Meal Planning and Preparation: Prepare meals at home whenever possible, allowing you to control ingredients and portion sizes. Involve your child in meal planning and cooking to educate them on healthy eating habits.
Set Regular Meal Times: Establish consistent meal and snack times to avoid mindless grazing throughout the day.

2. Encourage Regular Physical Activity

Exercise is an essential component of managing childhood obesity. Regular physical activity not only helps burn calories but also boosts energy levels, improves mood, and builds healthy habits that can last a lifetime.

Practical Tips:

Age-Appropriate Activities: Tailor exercise routines to your child’s age and interests. For younger children, encourage playful activities like dancing, playing tag, or riding a bike. For older kids, introduce structured activities like swimming, team sports, or running.
Incorporate Fun Exercises: Make exercise fun rather than a chore. Go for family walks, play games like soccer or basketball, or try interactive fitness video games.
Set Daily Activity Goals: Aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. This could be broken up into smaller sessions throughout the day.
Limit Screen Time: Reduce the amount of time your child spends watching TV or playing video games, as excessive screen time can contribute to sedentary behavior.

3. Provide Psychological Support

Childhood obesity can be emotionally challenging for children. They may face bullying, low self-esteem, or anxiety about their appearance. Addressing the psychological aspect of obesity is essential for long-term success.

Practical Tips:

Create a Supportive Environment: Avoid making your child feel ashamed about their weight. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and praise for healthy behaviors, regardless of the number on the scale.
Open Communication: Talk to your child about their feelings and emotions related to their weight and body image. Encourage them to express their concerns and reassure them that their worth is not tied to their appearance.
Encourage Body Positivity: Help your child develop a healthy body image by emphasizing the importance of health and fitness over weight loss alone. Remind them that every body is unique and that the goal is to be healthy and strong.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: If your child is struggling with emotional issues related to obesity, consider seeking the support of a counselor or therapist. Professional guidance can be especially helpful in addressing anxiety, depression, or eating disorders.

4. Engage the Whole Family

Managing childhood obesity should be a family effort. Children are more likely to succeed when the entire family adopts healthier habits. Lead by example by eating well, staying active, and prioritizing mental health. Make it a team effort that fosters long-term lifestyle changes.

Conclusion

We believe that managing childhood obesity requires a multifaceted approach that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and emotional support. With patience, consistency, and the right guidance, you can help your child achieve a healthy weight and develop lifelong habits that promote well-being. If you need additional support, our expert pediatric team is here to guide you through every step of the journey.