When to Seek Medical Care If you or the school personnel think your child is overweight If your child has expressed concerns about his or her weight If your child has problems keeping up with peers in physical fitness or sports Examination and Tests Weight-to-height tables These tables give general ranges of healthy weights and overweight for a child's height. Many health care providers... [read more]

Dietary habits Children's dietary habits have shifted away from healthy foods (such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) to a much greater reliance on fast food, processed snack foods, and sugary drinks. These foods tend to be high in fat and/or calories and low in many other nutrients. Patterns associated with obesity are eating when not hungry and eating while watching TV... [read more]