Childhood Obesity - Do you have an overweight child? We offer tips to help your child lose weight and get fit!

The My Overweight Child blog will help you keep informed about the latest research, findings, and resources available to parents of overweight or obese kids. There are many knowledgeable people working on the increasingly dire problem of childhood obesity - and we want to give parents a place where they can check in regularly to see the latest studies and tips available to help you help your child lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

We invite you to add your comments - if you have feedback for the blog, would like some specific topics covered, or you just want to share your experience as a parent dealing with childhood obesity.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Experts Introduce Seven-Step Plan for Childhood Weight Loss

Health-care experts continually try to devise plans that will help overweight and obese children lose weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The latest plan has seven steps that progressively increase in intensity and level of commitment.
For behavioral therapy, the plan suggests starting with groups such as Weight Watchers or Take Off Pounds Sensibly that offer support, education and accountability and allow parents and children to work together. (Source: The Los Angeles Times)
The program referred to the in LA Times article includes the following seven stages:
1. Medical Management
2. Education
3. Environmental changes
4. Support groups
5 & 6. Two forms of cognitive behavior therapy
7. Bariatric surgery (only as a last result)
These steps are meant to be shared among parent, child, and physician so they can all work together to design and a comprehensive plan of action. Failing to address weight issues in childhood can lead to one of the many health issues facing overweight teens.

Labels: childhood_obesity, weight loss, overweight children

Posted By: Aspen/CRC