We know a lot about the causes of obesity: Eating too much, spending too much time in front of the TV, not exercising and genetics all play roles. What we don't know a whole lot about is how to treat it effectively in children. In an ideal world, a pediatrician would work with a child and her family to make healthy lifestyle changes. But because of time constraints as well as frustration over trying to treat obesity, this doesn't always happen.
In a University of Pittsburgh study pediatricians were asked to identify obese patients from the ages of 3 months to 16 years. In more than 80 percent of cases the doctors examined dietary history, but only one out of four pediatricians asked about physical activity or television watching, and only 5 percent of the time did pediatricians suggest spending less time in front of the TV.
Doctors admit it can be frustrating to treat overweight patients since so many behaviors have to be addressed. Does the family or child watch more than one or two hours of TV a day? Do they eat in front of the TV? Do they play sports or exercise regularly? Are big bags of snacks kept at home? How often does the family or child eat fast food? Are the portions realistic?
When it all seems too overwhelming, it is best for parents to change just one aspect of their life at a time. For instance, focus on reducing portion size or increasing physical activity and commit to that before making other adjustments. Also, if you're overweight get screened for type 2 diabetes and elevated cholesterol. It might be the incentive you need to change your family's behavior.
