Weight Management
Pediatric health includes the management of weight because it can have a big impact on a child’s physical and mental health. According to studies, rates have increased by more than a factor of two in children and by a factor of four in teenagers during the past 20 years, which has caused alarm about childhood obesity in several countries.
Although managing a child’s weight might be challenging, it is essential to do so in order to prevent diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea that are linked to obesity.
Role of Pediatricians
Pediatricians are crucial to children’s weight management. Pediatricians weigh and measure children during well-child visits to determine their BMI, or body mass index. It is based on their height and weight. The pediatrician will evaluate the child’s food and level of physical activity if the child’s BMI is outside the normal range and may suggest actions to assist manage the child’s weight.
How it’s done?
- Promoting a nutritious diet is one of the main methods used in pediatric weight management. Limiting sugary foods and beverages is a good idea, and parents should encourage their kids to drink lots of water. Parents should encourage a healthy diet, but they should also observe portion sizes. Serving sizes for kids are often less than for adults, so parents should discourage their kids from overindulging
- Promoting physical exercise is a crucial component of pediatric weight management. Children should be physically active for at least 60 minutes each day. Sports, biking, dancing, or just playing outside are all examples of activities
- Interventions for managing weight often involve more rigorous methods like behavioral therapy or medication. By addressing underlying psychological issues that may be causing unhealthy habits, behavioral therapy can assist families and children in forming healthy habits
- In pediatric weight management, parents are also crucial. Children can maintain a healthy weight by being encouraged to practice good behavior at home. In order to provide an example for their children, parents should practice good food and physical activity. They should encourage their children to engage in physical activity, restrict screen time, and provide a supportive environment at home by keeping nutritious foods easily available
Ways of Evaluation for Weight Management
Pediatricians frequently employ the following evaluation techniques to track children’s weight management:
- Body Mass Index (BMI): Based on height and weight, BMI calculates how much body fat a person has
- Growth charts: These allow pediatricians to monitor a child’s weight, height, and head circumference throughout time
- Waist Circumference: The measurement of a child’s waist circumference is also used to assess their weight control. An increased risk factor for obesity-related health issues is excess belly fat
- Physical Exam: Pediatricians may conduct a physical exam on children to evaluate their general health and spot any potential issues with their ability to manage their weight
- Laboratory Examinations: Pediatricians may request laboratory examinations to gauge a child’s general health. These tests might assess lipid profiles, renal or liver function, blood sugar levels, or other factors
- Behavioral Evaluation: Pediatricians may also examine a child’s behavior to find any psychological issues that might be causing them to engage in unhealthy food or insufficient physical activity
Surya Hospitals offers a group of pediatricians who are committed to giving kids the best care possible. They are all highly certified and experienced. From simple diseases to complicated medical issues, they are capable of diagnosing and treating a wide range of pediatric conditions.
The hospital also features a specialized pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) to offer critically ill kids specialized care. Collaboration between pediatricians, nurses, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals makes up the multidisciplinary approach to pediatric treatment used by Surya Hospitals
Identifying and treating potential health issues early on is a key component of preventative care, which is strongly emphasized at Surya Hospitals.
To Book an Appointment click here or contact us