Talking to Your Child About Obesity: A Guide for Parents

It is hard enough as a parent to talk to your child about anything that is potentially embarrassing or uncomfortable, let alone something as sensitive as obesity. But discussing the issue with your child is an important step in helping them deal with the problem and improving their health. This guide provides tips on how to have those difficult conversations with your kid, and offers suggestions for resources that can help both of you address obesity.

Obesity is a problem that is affecting more and more teenagers each year. As a parent, you may be wondering how to talk to your child about their weight in a way that is supportive and informative. Keep reading for tips on how to have this important conversation with your teenager.

One in four teenagers in the United States is obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As a parent, you play a vital role in helping your child maintain a healthy weight. Here are some tips on how to talk to your teenager about obesity:

Start the conversation early.

The sooner you start talking to your child about their weight, the better. By beginning the conversation early, you can help your child develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

Focus on health, not appearance.

It’s important to focus on your child’s health, not their appearance. Teens who feel good about their bodies are more likely to take care of themselves than those who don’t. Help your child understand that being overweight puts them at risk for serious health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Encourage healthy eating and physical activity.

Help your child develop healthy eating habits by encouraging them to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Make sure they’re getting enough exercise by encouraging them to be active for at least 60 minutes every day. Try to set a good example yourself by being active and eating healthy foods.

Be supportive.

It can be difficult for teens to change their eating and activity habits. Be patient and understanding as they make these changes. Offer support and encouragement along the way. Let them know you’re there for them no matter what.

The Do’s of Talking to Your Teen About Obesity

• DO start the conversation by expressing your love and concern for your child’s health and well-being.

• DO focus on behaviors rather than on weight. For example, instead of saying “you need to lose weight,” try “I’m worried about your health because I’ve noticed that you haven’t been eating as many vegetables as you used to.”

• DO emphasize that making changes to diet and lifestyle is a team effort – you’re here to support and help every step of the way.

• DO be sensitive to the fact that your child may be embarrassed or ashamed about their weight. Reassure them that these feelings are normal and that you’re here to help them make positive changes.

The Don’ts of Talking to Your Teen About Obesity

• DON’T use negative or shaming language. This will only make your child feel worse and could hinder their motivation to make healthy changes.

• DON’T make assumptions about why your child is obese. There could be any number of reasons, including genetic factors, medical conditions, or psychological issues.

• DON’T focus solely on weight loss. Instead, talk about making lifestyle changes that will improve overall health, such as eating more fruits and vegetables, being more physically active, or getting enough sleep.

• DON’T forget to listen! Allow your teen to share their thoughts and feelings about their weight with you without judgment or criticism.

Conclusion

If you’re struggling to talk to your teenager about obesity, don’t worry – you’re not alone. However, it is important that you have this conversation in order to help your child make healthy changes. By approaching the conversation with love, concern, and sensitivity, you can help your child feel motivated to make positive changes.

Remember to avoid negative or shaming language, focus on behaviors rather than weight, emphasize that making changes is a team effort, and listen attentively to what your child has to say. With patience and understanding, you can help your teenager develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. If you need more guidance on how to talk to your teen about obesity, book an appointment with Dr. Linda Gordon today.