This is a very complex issue in medicine overall. Most people believe that to avoid being overweight, one must not eat. This is different from how it works; one pediatrician alone is unlikely to manage this issue.
Obesity most often results from dietary mistakes and insufficient activity. If an overweight child is comfortable with their condition, nothing you do—no persuasions, spells, prayers, or reproaches—will help. The person must be interested in their changes and the process overall. They need to understand and realize that there is a problem.
Never, under any circumstances, insult or shame a child about their weight, as this will reduce their self-esteem and lose their trust. Never compare them to others (a friend's daughter, a sister, yourself).
Refrain from sharply restricting the child's diet; chicken and buckwheat won't work here. What truly needs to be limited (not completely removed) are easily digestible carbohydrates, baked goods, milk, and sugary drinks.
Physical activity is essential (!), along with eliminating bad habits (after all, we're talking about teenagers…). It’s best to reduce weight under the supervision of an endocrinologist or nutrition specialist (endocrinologists often undergo additional training in nutrition).
In cases of obesity, psychological help is often needed not only for the child but for the whole family. The process can be long, as weight loss must be safe (do not aim to lose 20 kg in a month), and be prepared for long-term cooperation. It can be challenging, there can be setbacks, and it’s important not to hide this from doctors. Weight loss should be gentle, comfortable, and occur in a supportive atmosphere.
Obesity most often results from dietary mistakes and insufficient activity. If an overweight child is comfortable with their condition, nothing you do—no persuasions, spells, prayers, or reproaches—will help. The person must be interested in their changes and the process overall. They need to understand and realize that there is a problem.
Never, under any circumstances, insult or shame a child about their weight, as this will reduce their self-esteem and lose their trust. Never compare them to others (a friend's daughter, a sister, yourself).
Refrain from sharply restricting the child's diet; chicken and buckwheat won't work here. What truly needs to be limited (not completely removed) are easily digestible carbohydrates, baked goods, milk, and sugary drinks.
Physical activity is essential (!), along with eliminating bad habits (after all, we're talking about teenagers…). It’s best to reduce weight under the supervision of an endocrinologist or nutrition specialist (endocrinologists often undergo additional training in nutrition).
In cases of obesity, psychological help is often needed not only for the child but for the whole family. The process can be long, as weight loss must be safe (do not aim to lose 20 kg in a month), and be prepared for long-term cooperation. It can be challenging, there can be setbacks, and it’s important not to hide this from doctors. Weight loss should be gentle, comfortable, and occur in a supportive atmosphere.