Lite and Joy

One of the most common questions that parents ask is “What’s the right weight for my child?”  People have different body types, so no single number is the right weight for everyone.  If you think your child has gained too much weight or is too thin, a doctor should help you decide whether your child really has a weight problem.  Heredity plays a role in a person’s body shape and weight. People from different races, ethnic groups, and nationalities tend to have different body fat distribution  or body composition.   Kids can reach and keep a healthy weight by eating right and being active.

Genes aren’t the only things that family members may share.  The eating and exercise habits of people in the same household probably have an even greater effect than genes on someone’s risk of becoming overweight.  If your family eats a lot of high-fat foods or snacks or doesn’t get much exercise, your kids may tend to do the same. The good news is these habits can be changed for the better by eating  good nutritious food. Even simple forms of exercise, such as walking, have huge health benefits.

Please remember that it’s not a specific number on the scale that’s important.  It’s making sure that kids stay healthy inside and out.