Slimming Diet for Children Aged 10-12

 It's important to note that children's weight loss should be approached with caution, as they are still growing and developing. In fact, many children should just maintain their weight as they grow taller or put on pounds more slowly

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. However, if your child's pediatrician recommends weight loss, here are some tips to help them achieve a healthy weight:

Nutrition

Encouraging healthy eating habits is key to maintaining a healthy weight. Here are some tips:

1. Incorporate fruits and vegetables into every meal, including breakfast. Limit processed foods and have healthy meals and snacks planned for your child
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2. Avoid sugary drinks such as soda, juice, and sports drinks. Encourage your child to drink water or low-calorie beverages instead
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3. Serve moderate portions of mostly whole, unprocessed foods that are low in added sugar, sodium, and saturated fats. Vegetables and fresh fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and healthy fats should feature prominently in your child's diet
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4. Limit high-calorie condiments such as ketchup and mayonnaise
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5. Avoid keeping junk food in the house and out of reach and sight of your child. Instead, keep healthy snacks such as fruits and vegetables readily available
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Physical Activity

Physical activity is important for children's growth and development. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 years do 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily

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. Here are some tips to help your child stay active:

1. Encourage your child to participate in activities that are age-appropriate, enjoyable, and offer variety
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2. Limit sedentary activities such as watching TV and using phones
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3. Make physical activity a family priority. Exercise with your child to better your own health while helping your child develop sound exercise habits
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Other Tips

Here are some additional tips to help your child achieve a healthy weight:

1. Offer support and encouragement. Understand your child's motivation for wanting to slim down and make sure they have realistic expectations
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2. Don't force your child to eat or make them "clean their plate." Encourage them to listen to their bodies and stop eating when they feel full
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3. Avoid strict diets, fasting, and crash, liquid, or fad diets. These diets rarely work and may discourage your child or even be dangerous
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4. Consult with your child's pediatrician before making any significant changes to their diet or exercise routine
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Remember, it's important to approach weight loss for children with caution and to prioritize their overall health and well-being.

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webmd

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heartandstroke

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livestrong

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sfgate

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raisingchildren

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hopkinsmedicine

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livestrong

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cdc

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cdc

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kidshealth

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mayoclinic

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familydoctor

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verywellfamily