Child obesity is considered by medical professionals as a serious medical issue affecting both young children and teens around the world. In United States alone, obesity has reached to epidemic proportions with 1 out of 5 children between the ages of 6 and 17 afflicted with such condition. Though childhood obesity can be easily detected, it is nonetheless, one of those conditions that is hard treat. The annual medical cost to society for obesity has already reached to $100 billion along with 300,000 premature deaths.

The addition of few extra pounds on teens and children does not necessarily imply that they are obese. Child obesity is developed when the child or teen has significantly exceeded the weight appropriate for his or her age and height. This can be calculated using the Body Mass Index (BMI). The onset of obesity usually takes place between the ages of 5 and 6, but could also occur during adolescence. Studies have shown that if obesity is not given immediate medical attention, it is likely that the child or teen would become obese until his or her adulthood.

The cause of child obesity is a combination of genetic, behavioral and cultural factors, making it far more complex. Usually, child or teen obesity may develop due to poor eating habits, binging or overeating, lack of exercise, low self esteem, stressful life events, family and peer issues, depression, and family history of obesity, medical illnesses and medications. Sadly, the inability of parents to seek medical attention for their obese children during the early stage of the disease could actually lead to serious complications that could alter the physical, social and emotional well-being of these kids. Some of the most notable physical consequences that obesity could bring include the development of type two diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, sleeping disorders, respiratory issues and early puberty and menstruation. Social and emotional complications include low self esteem, bullying, behavioral and learning issues, and depression.

With the health and emotional hazards that obesity could induce, it is necessary for parents to become proactive in instigating their children to practice a healthy lifestyle. Although child and teenage weight loss is a task that is easier said than done, the key to achieve a healthy weight for children is take the issue as a familial challenge. As many people will say, "practice what you preach" and your kids would be able to adopt this mentality. As such, as a parent, you have to make sure that healthy eating and exercise are two important affairs that your whole family will proactively participate in.

There is no universal fast teen diet plan because this greatly depends on the physical condition of your child. However, most medical experts would agree that it is essential that you and your family should invest on a low-carb diet plan so as to limit your kids from consuming too much carbohydrate, which often causes body fat build up. As much as possible let your kids help you in planning and preparing meals for the family, and take them with you when you hit the grocery as these activities would help them in understanding the importance of healthy food selections. Additionally, encourage your kids to participate in various physical activities. But, before you actually let your child work out in the gym or in a youth center, you have to consult first with your family physician to know what physical activities your child should engage in. This way, you can be assured that the exercise that your child will be undertaking is appropriate for his or her age, health, and body condition.

Do bear in mind that obesity can turn into a lifelong problem if not attended immediately. Therefore, as a parent, you have to see to it that you follow a natural and systematic teenage weight loss program that is tailored to the needs of your child. At the same time, build up your child's self esteem by giving emphasis on his or her strengths and positive qualities rather than his or her weight issue. Put in mind that maintaining a desired weight can only occur if your child receives proper support combined with self motivation. By living a healthy lifestyle, you are setting a good example to your family and a healthy environment with which they will be encouraged to follow.

Cases of child obesity are growing at an alarming rate, with 1 out of every 5 children suffering from such condition. There is no defined factor that singly causes this disease. However, obesity is related to a variety of causes like lack of exercise, poor eating habits and other medical conditions. Due to the dangers associated to child and teenage obesity, it is important that parents strongly take part in encouraging their children to live a healthy lifestyle. There is no universal fast teen diet plan. However, with the right teenage weight loss program, support, encouragement and healthy food intake, obese children and teens could successfully maintain a healthy weight.