The prevalence of obesity among children and adolescents in Poland is increasing, which is why it is important to raise public awareness of healthy lifestyle. Taking steps to prevent and treat obesity should start at the youngest age. The actions taken should concern both the patient and his family. They should include education on the principles of rational nutrition and physical activity appropriate for age and condition. Among children, adolescents and adults, prevention and treatment of obesity should be based on the promotion of an active lifestyle, reducing the time spent in front of the TV or computer, promoting consumption of vegetables and fruits, limiting consumption of snacks, as well as sweet drinks and juices. Obese patients during treatment also require efforts to change their eating behaviors. The aim of this paper was to review current guidelines on the treatment of obesity in children of different ages, enabling the necessary modifications of the energy balance.

Key words: obesity, children, diet, physical activity.