Program Helps Reduce BMI in Obese Children

Monday Jan 19, 2010 (foodconsumer.org) -- In an effort to curb the childhood obesity crisis in the United States, the US Preventive Services Task Force has issued certain guidelines to assist pediatricians and parents; the suggested protocol is a combination of dietary advice, behavioral counseling, and physical activity, according to an article in the journal Pediatrics.

The obesity rate among children has reached an all time high of between 12-18% in 2-19 year olds; an all time high.   The Task Force studied intervention programs that were in place; they consisted of varying degrees of intensity.  1258 children were involved participants in the programs.

The researchers found that children engaged in a program that included 25 hours of counseling for them and/or their parents resulted in a decrease in BMI after 12 months.  Sessions with counselors emphasized eating management as well as behavioral strategies to help increase the likelihood of long-term success.  Only the children who completed the program successfully reduced their BMI.

The results of the study dispelled some of the fears that have long been held with regards to hands on help for obese children; eating disorders and mental health issues were non-existent.

Critics of the study say that one of the limitations of the findings is that it does not ascertain whether or not the same program would be beneficial for children who are overweight, but not obese. 

Aside from the above mentioned program, experts have long touted the positive role that parents can have on children who struggle with weight.  Some of the modifications that might inspire kids to eat healthily and stay active are:

*Make sure that as the parent, you model good eating habits for your children.  If you are noshing from the time you get home from work until bedtime, your kids will likely pick up on that habit.

*Provide an “active” environment—indeed, the family that exercises together stays healthy together.  Plan outings on the weekends; biking, hiking and rollerblading are not only great for your child’s health, they encourage bonding time between parent and child.

*Involve your children in the meal planning process.  Make sure they have some input on what you’ll be bring home from the grocery store.  Doing so will not only insure they eat well, it will encourage dialogue on the subject without belaboring the point.

By Rachel Stockton