Many adults swear by low-carbohydrate diets such as Atkins and South Beach. Parents might be tempted to apply the same type of weight-loss programs to overweight children.

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But physicians warn against the practice because children need a balanced diet as they grow to help ensure future good health.

"Growing children need a well-balanced diet, and that diet needs to consist of fats, proteins and carbohydrates," said Dr. Deborah Sesok-Pizzini, a pathologist. "If, for example, children do not receive the proper amount of carbohydrates, they may not have the energy they need to really think and learn in school."

Healthy eating is critical as childhood obesity rates climb, and doctors realize the consequences of denying a proper mix of all food groups.

"We are seeing an increase in the number of children who have high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes," Sesok-Pizzini said.

The result of an imbalanced diet could be a shorter lifespan.

"The young people of today may be the first generation that will have less life expectancy than previous generations, and that's because of morbid obesity," said Dr. Kenneth Bryce, a bariatric surgeon in Rockwall, Texas.

Doctors and dieticians say a routine of eating breakfast could boost mental awareness and help prevent obesity. Studies also show that children who sit down for home-prepared meals are closer to their ideal weights.

Experts suggest limiting soft drinks and reducing fatty foods as a way to cut down on the likelihood of overweight children. Parents can set a lifelong good example by improving their eating habits and regularly exercising.