One in three children are obese or overweight, according to the American Heart Association. For many families, that’s more than a statistic: it’s a source of concern and — sometimes — conversation.

But talking about weight gain, weight loss and appearance can do more harm than good. Research has repeatedly found that when adults comment on a child’s weight, it can create a negative relationship with food that lasts well into adulthood. Those children are more likely to be obese, overweight, binge eat, develop unhealthy eating habits or have a negative self-image.

While many parents and adults have the best intentions when talking to children about their weight, one expert offers a different approach to influencing healthy habits.

Say Less, Do More

Dianne Neumark-Sztainer, a researcher, professor and author, suggests that parents “say less and do more.” For families, that includes:

• Fill your home with healthy food choices, like fresh fruit, vegetables, low-sugar yogurt and nuts.
• Encourage kids to drink more water, skipping the soda and juice.
• Eat a healthy dinner as a family.
• Make time for physical activities the family can do together, like walking, bicycling and hiking.
• Be a positive role model. Make healthy choices, stay active and avoid saying anything negative about your own weight and appearance.

Be Supportive

If your child is overweight or obese, let him or her take the lead in talking about it. When they do bring it up, take a supportive role. Tell them you love them no matter what. Talk about healthy options and then make a plan together on ways to get healthy and active.

Remember, you can always talk to your pediatrician about concerns on your child’s weight.

If you need to find a doctor near you, call Tanner Health System at 770-214-CARE (2273) or visit the Find a Provider page on tanner.org. You can also find more information on planning healthy meals for children and encouraging exercise in the online Tanner Health Library.

Tanner Healthcare For Children, part of Tanner Medical Group, has offices in Bremen, Carrollton and Villa Rica. For more information, visit TannerHealthcareForChildren.org or call 770-812-8640.