A clinical counseling service offering family-centered nutritional education and individualized dietary planning for the management of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents.
Indication
- Children with a Body Mass Index (BMI) above the 95th percentile for age and sex (obesity)
- Overweight children with BMI between the 85th and 95th percentile (at-risk group)
- Suspected insulin resistance, prediabetes, or type 2 diabetes accompanying obesity
- Children diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Adolescent girls diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Children with obesity-related orthopedic or respiratory issues (e.g., sleep apnea)
- Children at risk due to family history of obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease
Preparation
- A growth chart from the past 3-6 months (height-weight tracking records) is prepared
- Blood test results requested by the physician (fasting glucose, insulin, lipid profile, liver function) are brought
- A 3-day food diary documenting the child's daily eating habits and activity level is kept
- Family members are encouraged to attend the consultation (family-centered approach)
- A note summarizing previous diets or medications is prepared
How it's performed
- A detailed nutritional history, family habits, and school meal patterns are evaluated
- Anthropometric measurements (height, weight, waist circumference, BMI percentile) are taken and the growth curve is interpreted
- Body composition analysis (bioimpedance using age-appropriate equipment) is performed to assess muscle-fat ratio
- An individualized energy and nutrient plan is prepared based on age, sex, and growth rate
- Recommendations are given to the family on kitchen organization, portion control, screen time, and physical activity
- A follow-up program is created using behavior change techniques and goal setting (SMART goals)
Post-procedure
- Follow-up appointments every 2-4 weeks during the first 3 months, then as needed
- Anthropometric measurement and growth curve tracking at each visit
- Updating the nutrition plan based on the child's growth rate
- Joint follow-up with pediatrics, endocrinology, or psychology (referral as needed)
- Motivational sessions and behavior reinforcement meetings for the family
Risks
- Risk of overly restrictive diets negatively affecting growth and development (therefore not used)
- Careful monitoring is required for the development of eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia)
- Family conflict and loss of motivation in the child
- Healthy growth, rather than rapid weight loss, is the goal; results are long-term
- Medical follow-up is essential to ensure accompanying conditions are not missed
FAQ
How long does it take for my child to lose weight?
In childhood, the goal is generally to stabilize weight while height increases, bringing BMI into the normal range, rather than rapid weight loss. The process varies according to age and growth rate over months.
Should the whole family follow the same diet?
A family-centered approach is essential in childhood obesity. When the entire family adopts healthy eating habits, the child's success increases significantly.
Is exercise necessary?
Regular physical activity (at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity daily) is a fundamental part of treatment. Age-appropriate activities the child enjoys are preferred.
Is medication needed?
For most children, nutritional and lifestyle changes are sufficient. Medication is only considered in selected advanced cases at the physician's discretion.
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