•       inadequate sleep
  •       a mother or father who is obese
  •       restricting a child's diet in an effort to control weight

Restricting a Child’s Food Intake Can Backfire

The most surprising of the three obesity risk factors may be the effects of food restrictions. While restricting a child’s access to certain foods may seem like a good idea, researchers say it will only make children want the food more.

“If kids have never had a chance to eat potato chips regularly, they may overeat them when the food appears at a friend's picnic,” McBride said.

Researchers said that instead of restricting foods, parents should include a wide array of healthy choices, including fruits and vegetables.

Other simple food related tips from the researchers include:

  •       DON’T use food to comfort a hurt or disappointed child.
  •       DON’T pre-plate meals at the counter as it can discourage self-regulation.
  •       DO allow your preschoolers to select foods as they’re passed at family-style meals
  •       DO encourage all your children to be mindful about what they eat

Parents Who Lose Weight Have Kids Who Lose Weight

Every parent knows the old saying “monkey see, monkey do,” and it has a ring of truth to it.

It should come as no surprise that the parents of obese children are often obese themselves. Genetics is a risk factor for obesity, but with the right changes in the home, parents can help their children form healthier habits.

And as researchers have noted, it all starts with mom and dad.

Encourage an Early Bedtime

Researchers also found that children who don't get enough sleep are more likely to be obese, which is why they encourage earlier bedtimes for overweight children.

Previous research from the University of California, Berkeley found that people who are sleep-deprived are more likely to crave high-calorie foods, which is one reason why children should get the appropriate amount of sleep each night.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, toddlers need 12 to 14 hours of sleep a day, preschoolers need 11 to 13 hours, and school-age children need 10 to 11 hours.  

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