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Overweight Child: Evaluating Nutrition and Activity Patterns

Topic Overview

When a doctor asks questions about your child's eating and activity habits, the information helps identify patterns that may lead to extra weight.

Nutrition history

You may be asked:

  • To describe your family's meals and snacks during a typical day.
  • What your child eats at school.
  • Who is responsible for meals. Is it the parent, a relative, or another caregiver?
  • How often a child or teen eats away from home, such as at school, in restaurants, or at friends' homes.

Physical activity

You may be asked whether your child:

  • Takes part in physical activities at school or after school.
  • Rides or walks to school.
  • Plays actively with friends.
  • Participates in organized sports.
  • Helps with yard work or housework or has other chores.
  • Spends a lot of time watching television, playing computer or video games, or reading.
  • Has a safe place to play outdoors.
  • Is under adult supervision when playing.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Certified Diabetes Educator
Last Revised August 29, 2011

Last Revised: August 29, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics & Rhonda O'Brien, MS, RD, CDE - Certified Diabetes Educator

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