Unlimited Appetite

[evilcookie007]

My stepdaughter is constantly hungry - she can eat a meal (usually consisting of a meat, vegetable and rice or potato, all cooked healthily because I'm on weight watchers), and an hour later, she says she's hungry again.  There are times I've seen her eat more than a grown man.  Her pediatrician says she's overweight by about 15 pounds, and I've noticed an increase in weight as well.  She's active, likes to swim and be outside running around and riding bikes.  She's also got a horrible sweet tooth.  Unfortunately, she's not with us often, so it's hard to make sure she's always eating healthy.  I've given some pointers to her mother about types of food to avoid feeding her (candy, donuts, pizza, hot dogs, etc...), because she's worried about her appetite as well.  What should we do to calm this down?

[Renee Radenberg]

Would you please state her age so I can properly answer your question? Thank you.

[evilcookie007]

She is 9 - she'll be 10 next month.

[Renee Radenberg]

She is overweight for her age from the measurements you stated. It is important she is active and limit time in front of the TV or non-active-video games / computer. There have been studies showing the longer the length of time a child sit in front of the TV, the greater the weight gain. Suggest you do not have any high sugar drinks / snacks in the house and replace with low fat milk / yogurt or fruit / low fat popcorn / low fat cheese. High sugar drink and snacks do not give the child nutrients they need. If she is hungry then give her ‘empty’ calorie foods, such as diet jello, air popped popcorn (no oil), and salad with only very little oil and vinegar.