How do I Help a Four Year Old Lose Weight on a Weight Loss Program?

The statistics on overweight children in the United States are staggering. Some studies show that as many as one in five four-year-olds are overweight. The popularity of television, internet and video games is largely responsible for an overall lack of fitness in children across the nation. Fortunately, a carefully balanced approach including diet and exercise can help a child to maintain a healthy weight. Proper nutrition is perhaps the most important piece of the puzzle. The best way to help a four-year-old to lose excess weight is to start the child on a healthy eating program.

Things You'll Need

• Low-fat, low-calorie foods
• Access to outdoor play spaces

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Instructions

Weight Loss for Children

• 1

  Provide healthy, nutritious foods for your four-year-old. Feed your child three meals a day, and try to limit the amount of fried and fast foods. A small serving of lean meat, combined with larger portions of fruits and vegetables, is best. Fresh fruits are also a good alternative to desserts. Incorporate lots of water into your child's diet. Avoid too many snack foods, and opt for low-fat or skim milk and sugar-free drinks and treats.

• 2

  Encourage your child to participate in regular exercise and fitness. Riding a bike or simply helping to walk the dog through the neighborhood can help get your child's metabolism moving. Or turn up the music and let your child dance. Swimming is another activity that burns significant calories. When you go shopping, park the car farther away from the entrance. Take stairs instead of elevators and find the time to take your child to the park to run and play.

• 3

  Praise your four-year-old often for her efforts. Experts warn that a child's self-image can be affected even before the age of four. Be supportive of your child, and make sure he knows that you love him no matter what he weighs. Young children have little control over their diet and exercise activities, so it is up to the parent or caregiver to help them achieve a healthy body weight. Become a good role model by sharing and participating in your child's new, healthier lifestyle.

• 4

  Call your pediatrician. If controlling your four-year-old's diet and exercise doesn't seem to help, you will want to tell your child's doctor. He or she may want to put your child on certain medications, or may recommend seeking advice from other professionals, including a psychologist or dietitian.