A healthy weight for the family: protecting children from obesity
The WHO estimates that 400 million children and adolescents aged 5–19 were overweight in 2024, including 170 million living with obesity. Obesity is linked to type 2 diabetes, heart, liver and kidney disease and some cancers, and in childhood it can affect self-esteem and school performance.
What is a healthy weight?
In adults, a BMI of 25 or more is overweight and 30 or more is obesity. Children are assessed against age-specific growth charts, so ask your paediatrician to assess your child.
Daily habits that make a difference
- Cut back on sugar-sweetened drinks and energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods.
- Eat more vegetables, fruit, pulses, whole grains and nuts.
- Limit foods high in fat, sugar and salt.
- Encourage daily play and physical activity.
- Limit screen time and long periods of sitting.
- Make sure children get enough sleep.
- Breastfeed exclusively for the first 6 months, then continue up to 2 years or longer.
A tip for parents
Children copy what they see. Eat together, be a role model for activity and healthy eating, and avoid negative comments about weight — the goal is healthy habits, not numbers on a scale.
Note: This content is for general awareness and does not replace a consultation with a doctor. In an emergency, please call 997.
