Kids today, especially in the United States, are heavier than ever, and the results are proving to be disastrous with more children developing what used to be considered adult problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol levels.

In addition, overweight children tend to develop sooner than children who are at or near their ideal weight. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Michigan’s Mott’s Children’s Hospital, which was published by the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed overweight girls hit puberty when they were as young as nine-years-old.

The consequences of an overweight child go beyond the physical, however, with some experts noting that psychological problems among obese children, who can be and often are bullied mercilessly, are common.

The good news is, even if your child is overweight, he or she can lose that weight and becoming physically fit. But, according to the American Heart Association, losing weight is about making small lifestyle changes rather than making a significant change in the short term. For example, ensuring that your child eats less calories on a daily basis will benefit her in the long-term by helping her to lose weight and to keep that weight off. She also won’t be forced to forgo her favorite foods.

On the other hand, if you simply put her on a diet, that restricts what she can eat and bans her from eating her favorite foods, she may lose weight in the short-term, but she likely won’t keep that weight off. Limiting calorie intake on a daily basis is critical to ensuring she loses weight and keeps that weight off.

Another key to ensuring a child makes the right lifestyle changes is the support and guidance of his or her parents. As a parent, you must lead by example, and that’s no different when it comes to health and diet. If your child sees you eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, for example, she’s much more likely to eat fruits and vegetables, too. Lead by example.

Additionally, find out what type of school lunches your child is eating. You may find that the foods being served on a daily basis aren’t conducive to good health. If that is the case, start packing a healthy bagged lunch for your child every day.

Of course, you can’t expect your child to lose weight by diet alone. Exercise plays an important role in weight loss and keeping weight off. Make sure your child is active enough. Rather than allowing her to watch TV or play video games for a few hours a day, encourage her to ride her bike, go for a walk, or do something physical.

If you really want to ensure your child’s weight loss success, make exercise a family experience. Have the whole family go for a walk or a bike ride in the evenings. Or, go swimming at your local pool several times a week. Be creative and find the time that allows you to exercise with your child.

Before you put your child on a diet or an exercise program, however, take her to her regular doctor, and discuss the best course of action with the physician.