If your child is overweight and physically inactive, he's at high risk for a medical problem that only recently has begun to affect children. Called "metabolic syndrome," it's a combination of high blood pressure, an unhealthy cholesterol profile, and blood sugar problems. Children with metabolic syndrome often have excessive abdominal fat and often progress to diabetes type 2.

While each of these health problems is worrisome in themselves, those with metabolic syndrome are at 3.5 times risk for athersclerosis and heart disease in the future.

What can you do to help a child with metabolic syndrome? The first step is to encourage weight loss, dietary changes and physical activity. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe medication to treat the problem.