Severe obesity in children is one of the most common health problems today, as it affects the child's daily activity, general health, and ability to grow normally. Choosing the correct home methods helps improve weight and support healthy dietary habits without deprivation or pressure.
And it clarifies practical and effective steps that help the family deal with severe obesity in children in a safe and easy way, focusing on psychological support, proper nutrition, and age-appropriate physical activity.
What is severe obesity in children?
childhood obesity
Severe obesity in children refers to an abnormal increase in the child's weight compared to their height and age, which affects heart health, respiration, motor development, and the ability to perform daily activities.
Causes of severe obesity in children
The reasons that may lead to severe obesity in children are numerous, most notably:
- Consuming large quantities of sugars and baked goods.
- Lack of movement and spending long hours in front of screens.
- Relying on fast food.
- Genetic or hormonal factors sometimes.
- Not following a healthy sleep system.
Signs of severe obesity in children
Among the most famous signs of severe obesity in children:
- Difficulty moving or feeling tired quickly.
- A noticeable increase in waist circumference.
- Shortness of breath when exerting simple effort.
- Loss of self-confidence due to appearance.
- Noticing a change in walking or running style.
Treatment of severe obesity in children at home
Proper nutrition is the cornerstone in treating severe obesity in children and includes:
- Providing meals rich in fiber, such as vegetables and legumes.
- Reducing sugars and carbonated drinks.
- Replacing fast food with healthy homemade meals.
- Dividing food into 4-5 light meals instead of two large ones.
- Providing healthy protein such as eggs,beans, and grilled chicken.
Organizing the child's daily activity
Physical activity is an essential element in improving severe obesity in children. Suitable activities include:
- Walking daily for 20-30 minutes.
- Light exercises at home,such as jumping or running in place.
- Fun movement games instead of sitting in front of the phone.
- Participating in simple school sports activities.
Reducing screen time
Because long sitting durations increase severe obesity in children, it is preferable to:
- Limit screen time to one or two hours daily.
- Replace part of screen time with alternative activities like drawing or movement play.
Ways to help the success of the treatment plan at home
Among the most famous methods that help in successfully treating severe obesity in children:
- Encouraging the child instead of punishing him.
- The family sharing the same healthy system to create an encouraging environment.
- Buying only healthy snacks and avoiding having high-calorie foods at home.
- Setting simple weekly goals,like reducing sweetened juices.
Home recipes for treating severe obesity in children
Some home recipes that help reduce the incidence of severe obesity in children:
- Presenting a salad plate rich in colorful vegetables with the main meal.
- Drinking a glass of water before eating to feel full.
- Replacing sweets with fresh fruits.
- Presenting oatmeal with milk as a satisfying breakfast meal
Frequently Asked Questions about severe obesity in children
Can severe obesity in children be treated without medication?
In most cases, weight can be improved through proper nutrition and daily activity without medication.
How long does it take for a child to improve from severe obesity?
Results may appear within 6-12 weeks when adhering to daily healthy habits.
Does severe obesity affect the child's psychology?
It may cause low self-confidence or introversion if the child is not supported positively.
Article Summary
Severe obesity in children requires a combination of proper nutrition, physical activity, and reduced screen time, in addition to continuous family support and adherence to simple steps at home.
This helps the child lose weight in a safe and healthy way without exhaustion or pressure. Success depends on the daily routine, encouraging the child, and providing a supportive environment that encourages movement and eating a balanced diet.