Childhood obesity is a serious health issue in our country with one in three children and adolescents having overweight or obesity. Children diagnosed with obesity are at an increased risk of developing additional diseases that can carry on into adulthood, like prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, elevated cholesterol and triglycerides and fatty liver disease. The good news is that lifestyle interventions like better nutrition and increased physical activity can improve a child’s health.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recently released comprehensive clinical guidelines for pediatricians to use in the treatment of childhood obesity. Here’s what you can expect from CPCMG:

1. Early intervention is crucial to improving health outcomes for kids and teens. CPCMG pediatricians are equipped to support children and their families. Our comprehensive programs including the W.E.L.L. Clinic and Healthy Living Visits (HLV) will support families to make healthy changes in the following areas: nutrition, physical activity, sleep, social-emotional wellness, and screen time. Learn more about these important programs.

2. Assessing obesity-related diseases beginning at age 10 will become standard practice. Lab tests for cholesterol, liver enzymes, and diabetes will help CPCMG providers to assess risk and create a treatment plan for kids and teens with lab abnormalities.

3. Family-based treatment is most impactful in helping to create habit changes. CPCMG’s W.E.L.L. Clinic includes a 12-month lifestyle program including monthly visits with CPCMG providers who have additional training in nutrition and weight management, as well as optional health coaching sessions, virtual cooking sessions, and more.

4. Medication options are now available. Adolescents ages 12 and older, especially those with more severe obesity, may benefit from medication in addition to lifestyle changes.  CPCMG providers may discuss these options with you.

CPCMG providers are ready to support patients in improving health and managing this complex disease by helping families implement important lifestyle changes. If you are interested in CPCMG’s W.E.L.L. Clinic or Healthy Living Visits, please ask your CPCMG provider for more information.

Dr. Natalie Muth is the Director of CPCMG’s WELL Clinic. She is a pediatrician, registered dietitian, and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine.  Her mission is to help families thrive by supporting healthy nutrition and activity environments, proactive parenting, and health promoting policies and programs.

Cassandra Padgett is a health educator and health coach for CPCMG’s WELL Clinic. She has a master’s in health promotion and education and is a Certified ACE Health Coach and Personal Trainer. She is passionate about supporting kids and families in creating enjoyable healthy habits.