Does my child fall into obese category?

There is no fixed figure in regards to obesity criteria as children grow continuously. The easiest and the most accurate method is to calculate the body mass index (BMI), which is a person's weight divided by the square of height in meters.

BMI in children and teenagers are evaluated by taking into consideration the reference values of the society, which is obtained based on age and gender. You may consult to your doctor in this respect.

What should I do to prevent my child from becoming obese in the future?

You should simply avoid having bagful of fruit juice, soft drinks, chocolates, and wafers, potato chips purchased from supermarkets around the house all the time.

Children learn most behaviors from you. Imagine an invisible mirror between you and your child; your attitudes and behaviors reflecting on your little one… Children may not listen to what you say, but they will pay attention to what you do. Therefore remember that you should be a role model for your baby. It’s important that you create a happy and peaceful family table. And it’s an important step for your child if he realizes how you care about what you eat.

Pay really close attention to advertisements that deeply influence children. The ads create non-real worlds and they may deliver the message that happiness can only be achieved by having snacks. Foods offered in fancy packages will definitely draw your child’s attention. As parents, you should make sure your child understands that the ads portray an artificial world and real satisfaction in life doesn’t come from over-consumption of unhealthy snacks. There are a thousand other ways to feel good and happy. Therefore help him discover those thousand other ways.

In terms of obesity, the speed of eating is as important as the caloric content. The faster you eat, the lesser will be the feeling of being full that arises before the meal is over. So teach your child to eat slowly and chew well. Get your kids to avoid sweet and carbonated drinks.

Watch out for your child’s "snacking" habits between meals. When you notice that she is hungry in between meals, do not give her sweets.

Furthermore, do not ever reward your children by giving them sweet.

If your child is going to school, you should help her build the right perception about consuming cafeteria and canteen food. Also keep in mind that having less meals, skipping meals and eating one or two meals a day, consuming high calorie and high fat foods and carbs will increase the risk of gaining weight.
 
What should be done to prevent obesity in children?

Physical activity is the right way to go! Support your children to be physically active as much as possible. But first, the hardest part: You have to set a good example! You should get out and move rather than telling your child to move from a comfy couch. Remember, children may not listen to you, but they’ll do what you do, observe it and take it in… What could you do? Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Use less public transportation for short travelling distances… Walk to your destination point together with your child. Spend less time in front of TV and computer; make sure your children do the same as well. In fact limit this time to less than two hours. Encourage your child to do sports. All of these tips will help your child live a healthier life and they will help “you” to live healthier life! It’s a win-win situation; and on top it’s a mental and physical recreation that would positively change your life. 

How is obesity treated?

Obesity treatment should be done through collaboration of the dietician, the doctor and the patient. The essential purpose of treatment is to ensure weight control all throughout a person's life and make nutrition and sports your life style. Basic approach of treatment is to regulate nutrition and increase physical activity rate. Medication in childhood obesity is used only in very special cases. Treatment with medication can be considered as an option in case of morbid obesity and insulin resistance. Please note that treatment of obesity requires a long-term program. And support of the family is very important in this respect. In such cases, family must be calm, patient and must guide their child accurately.