Asian parents are beginning to shift away from the traditional notion that a chubby youngster is a more robust one. But if mom and dad reckon the solution is to get their child to eat less, they should think harder. Of course, a balanced diet is important - more fruit and vegetables, less fatty foods such as potato crisps and fried snacks. But being fat is probably due as much to a lack of exercise as to over-eating. The equation is simple, Dr. Chwang points out.
Nutritious meals have to be combined with regular exercise or sport.
But the key is to make the physical activity fun for children, according to organizers of the Taiwan survey, which was coordinated by the Chinese Dietetics Society and the Singapore-based Asian Food Information Center. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you. Read our privacy guidelines .