Kids and Weight Loss

lkraus17

Need some opinions please.

I have a 10 year old son who is 4ft 10 and weighs 120lbs. Over the past 2 months, we as a family have made some drastic changes to our lifestyles. We have given up bread, a lot of processed foods (but I wouldn't say all) and refined sugar. My kids walk 1 mile to their school in the morning and walk 1 mile back after school. They each have a FitBit Flex and both easily hit their 10,000 step before dinner time as well as they do boxing training and swimming lessons (30 minutes each 2x a week).

Here is my problem: My husband and I have both lost over 20 lbs, my youngest son (age 8) has lost 10 lbs yet my 10 year old has only lost 7 lbs in the first few weeks but the scale hasn't moved in almost a month. He has a voracious appetite and often consumes his entire lunch before first recess; I pack him tons of fruit, veggies and protein. I know he's growing and he may have lost an inch or 2 around his waist but I'm wondering if there something more I should be doing for him.

Any thoughts?

dfnewcombe

Just my opinion, and please talk with your son's pediatrician, but it does sound like you are doing the right things- keeping him active and providing sensible, nutritious foods. I think he should grow into his weight rather than try to lose any. If sedentary activities are kept to a minimum (TV, computer, and video) I think he will be fine. Make sure he drinks enough water.

Branstin

Has his pediatrician stated that there was a problem with his weight or health?

lkraus17

His paediatrician put him on Risperidone for his Autism. One of the known side effects is an increased appetite. It was the doctor suggestion to cut of breads, pastas etc. but other than that the doctor hasn't said much other than "Let's keep on an eye on it." It's just a tough age for kids as they begin to start puberty and it's just another stressor on the poor kid.

wozkaa

My husband had a brief period on Risperidone. It made him gain weight, and he didn't have much of an appetite at all. Depends on the person, age, and dosage I guess.

Branstin

If you trust his doctor then follow his advice. Your son walks 10 miles a week plus burn calories in other physical activities. It is natural for his appetite to increase. If his doctor isn't concern then give him more food.

arditarose

Aw..this sounds so intense for the little ones. I mean, I get it. But how are they doing, emotionally? Do you talk to them about weight loss and food or just put good food on the table? I am seriously not judging. I work with children and am just interested in this process.

TavistockToad

You make your kids weigh in each week?

Sued0nim

you're weighing your kids

they are supposed to have wide, healthy appetites - they tend to bulk up then shoot up

just keep going with the healthy food and increased exercise - and don't let them see you obsess

eldamiano

Same as everybody I am afraid. Loads of protein doesnt equal weight loss. Calorie deficit = weight loss.

chocbeast

I think someone else has already said it but with children, rather the focus of losing weight it should be on growing into their weight which sounds like what is happening.

queenofthedancehall

I am all for keeping him active and increasing his water, fruit, and vegetable intake. With that being said, and as the mother of three, I have to tell you not to overstress this. He is only ten and still growing. Dont push him to the point where he breaks and then starts to hate everything fitness related.

lorib642

He may be growing. My son was overweight and at that age his ped just wanted us to maintain his weight, not try to lose. It sounds like he is very active.