Weighing in on Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity has received a lot of media attention lately.

The spotlight has been focused on First Lady Michelle Obama’s efforts to fight the epidemic, the recent announcement that several fast food chains have agreed to offer healthier items on their kids’ menus, and the idea proposed by one physician, who compared childhood obesity to child abuse and stated in some cases, obese children should be taken from their parents.

Most recently, McDonald’s announced an overhaul to their Happy Meals to make them healthier.

Childhood obesity is inarguably a growing problem for our nation. It is, without a doubt, a serious health concern. Extra weight puts kids at higher risk for Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, arthritis, reflux, sleep apnea, high blood pressure and poor self esteem.

The idea that it is just “baby fat” and that kids will “grow out of it” is false. Research has shown that carrying extra weight in childhood increases a child’s likelihood of being overweight as an adult.

Simply putting an overweight child on a diet is not the solution. Their growing bodies have unique nutritional needs and strict dieting may deprive them of the nutrients they need to grow and develop.

So what is a concerned parent to do?

The first step is to consult with your child’s pediatrician. He or she can determine if your child’s weight is an issue. When appropriate, you may be referred to a program like Franklin Square’s “Fit Families.”

“Fit Families” is for children and adolescents up to the age of 18 years who have a diagnosis of being overweight or obese. The program includes a complete nutrition evaluation with a registered dietitian and an exercise program with a personal fitness trainer.

While participants are encouraged to make lifestyle behavior changes, we know we cannot expect families to change their entire way of life overnight. We work together with families to set realistic expectations, choosing a few goals at a time and making gradual changes that will stick and lead to healthier long-term outcomes. 

The “Fit Families” program has helped children feel better about themselves, reduce risk factors for diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol, help families learn about healthy eating, and how to increase fitness and strength.

The program does require a clinical diagnosis and physician referral, so if you are interested, see your pediatrician first.

If you are just looking for ways to help your kids live a healthier lifestyle, here are some tips to try. They work for adults, too, so why not follow them together?

• Start the day with a healthy breakfast. Good choices include whole grains, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and fruits and vegetables.
• Replace sugary sodas and juices with water and low-fat or skim milk.
• If they are resistant to new foods, get kids involved in the preparation. They may be more likely to try what they helped make.
• Limit screen time to two hours a day. This includes computers, television and video games.
• Use that time saved to engage in physical activity. Aim for at least 60 minutes a day, most days.
• Focus on the positive. Rather than discouraging unhealthy behaviors, encourage healthy behaviors and offer praise along the way.

Finally and perhaps most importantly, my best advice is to practice what you preach. You are your child’s number-one role model. If they see you enjoying healthy nutrition and fun exercises, they’ll want to as well. The end result will be a healthier, happier family.