In contrast to the seemingly popular idea that there is no shortage of fat kids here, dietitians at Hamad Hospital have told Gulf Times that 70% of children they see between the ages of 6-12 are “severely underweight”.

The reason given: parents are too busy to pay attention to the kid, parents and nannies don’t have a clue about nutrition, and apparently, many don’t know how to prepare a meal.

And if your kids simply fight you, and refuse to eat what’s good for them? Says paediatric dietician Celine Jour:

“Parents can offer children, who show no interest in food, some special rewards to lure them to eat very well such as promising them a chocolate bar later or a nice weekend trip to their favourite park or venue. This has really worked for so many children.”

Good luck!

Credit: Photo by Omar Chatriwala