Pediatric Pearls

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Last episode we talked about the why and complications of obesity. This episode we will discuss some things that you can do to prevent obesity in your child. The first and foremost you should do is talk with your child’s physician. Express your concerns, if they do not share in your concern then find another physician who will.

Children less than 2 years of age should not be watching TV. Children more than 2 years of age should have no more than 2 hours per day of screen time, this includes TV and computer. There should not be a TV in the room that the child sleeps in.

Children need more than 60 minutes per day of activity/play time. This can occur in small increments of time that add up to 60 minutes. Make this fun. Get out and play with your child.

Diet should include at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day, minimize sweetened beverages to no more than 4 oz per day, eat a daily breakfast, limit meals outside the home and avoid overly restrictive behavior.

One of the most important things that you can do to prevent obesity in your child is to be a role model. Try foods that you may not like, overtime you will learn to like them. Children may need 10-15 exposures to a food before they accept that food. Be active with your children; show them that exercise and play can be fun. Now go and give your child the gift of health.

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