People are also eating a lot more ready meals which have a higher fat content. We need to encourage mothers to look more carefully at the fat content of the food they are giving their children, and toddlers need to be up and about, playing and running around to ensure they get enough exercise. Factfile What parents can do Reducing dietary fat is the easiest change. But highly restrictive diets that forbid favourite foods are likely to fail. Becoming more active is widely recommended as a way to lose weight.
Increased activity is common in all studies of successful weight reduction.
Create an environment that encourages and supports physical activity. Parents' involvement in modifying obese children's behaviour is important in losing weight. Parents who model healthful eating and activity habits can have a significant positive influence on the health of their children.