Don't fall for the 'Slim Coffee' scam

Young people generally become overweight or obese because they do not get enough physical activity in combination with poor eating habits. Genetics and lifestyle also contribute to a child's weight status.

Recommendations for prevention of overweight and obesity during childhood and adolescence include:

1,Gradually work to change family eating habits and activity levels rather than focusing on a child's weight.

2,Be a role model. Parents who eat healthy foods and participate in physical activity set an example so that a child is more likely to do the same.

3,Encourage physical activity. Children should have 60 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. More than 60 minutes of activity may promote weight loss and subsequent maintenance.

4,Reduce screen time in front of the television and computer to less than two hours daily.

5,Encourage children to eat when hungry and to eat slowly.

6,Avoid using food as a reward or withholding food as a punishment.

7,Keep the refrigerator stocked with fat-free or low-fat milk, fresh fruit, and vegetables instead of soft drinks and snacks high in sugar and fat.

8,Serve at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.

9,Encourage children to drink water rather than beverages with added sugar, such as soft drinks, sports drinks, and fruit juice drinks.

Resource: www.tcmadvisory.com

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