Weight Management for Children and Teens

An important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle is eating right and maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight in childhood can affect a young person’s general health, and is an important early indicator for illnesses later into adulthood and a reduced lifespan. Physical complications of being overweight may include but are not limited to:^{1, 2}

• Increased risk of heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Asthma
• Bone, joint and muscle pain
• Sleep apnea (absence of breathing during sleep)

Being overweight in childhood can also contribute to feelings of depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. Overweight kids are more likely to be teased and rejected by their peers.

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