Articles In This Section
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Overweight and Obesity
It's an alarming statistic: 1 out of 3 U.S. kids are considered overweight or obese. Find out how to overcome overweight and obesity in your own family.
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Losing Weight: Brandon’s Story (Video)
Brandon, 17, has lost 70 pounds through better eating and exercise. Learn what inspires him to stay on track.
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Weight Loss Surgery: Stacie’s Story (Video)
After struggling with weight gain and resulting health problems, one teen decides to make a change.
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Weight Loss Surgery (Bariatric Surgery)
For teens who are severely obese, losing weight can be a challenge. When diet and exercise aren't enough to help shed stubborn pounds, weight loss surgery may be an option.
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Encouraging a Healthy Body Image
A healthy and positive body image means liking your body, appreciating it, and feeling grateful for its qualities and capabilities. Parents can help kids develop a healthy body image.
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Lactose Intolerance
Many kids have lactose intolerance - trouble digesting lactose, the main sugar in milk and milk products - which can cause cramps, diarrhea, and gas.
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When Can Young Kids Start Exercising?
Find out what the experts have to say.
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What Are the Symptoms of an Overeating Disorder?
Find out what the experts have to say.
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How Can I Improve My Child’s Eating Habits?
Find out what the experts have to say.
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My Child May Have an Eating Disorder — What Can I Do?
Find out what the experts have to say.
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Hunger and Malnutrition
Even people who have plenty to eat may be malnourished if they don't eat food that provides the right nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.
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Failure to Thrive
Most kids follow growth patterns that are normal, but others have ”failure to thrive” – they fail to gain weight as expected and have poor height growth.
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Body Mass Index (BMI) Charts
Doctors use body mass index (BMI) measurements to assess a child's physical growth in relation to other kids the same age. Here's how to calculate BMI and understand what the numbers mean.
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Pica
Some young kids have the eating disorder pica, which is characterized by persistent and compulsive cravings to eat nonfood items.
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Eating Disorders
Eating disorders are common among teens and kids, especially young women. Read about the warning signs, prevention strategies, and ways to help a child with an eating disorder.
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Your Child’s Weight
"What's the right weight for my child?" is one of the most common questions parents have. It seems like a simple one, but it's not always easy to answer.
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Binge Eating Disorder
Kids who eat unusually large amounts of food - and feel guilty or secretive about it - could be struggling with binge eating disorder.