Thread by @DoctorTro

It’s very difficult to help children under 13-15 with dietary change

They are still not fully developed, can’t drive, don’t buy their own food, don’t cook their own food, school lunch is a disaster, so is their friends house

But also many just aren’t ready to make the change

My best advice to parents with children who have obesity is to be as supportive as possible. Help them out without their knowledge

Replace the chips W/ @QuestNutrition chips

Buy nuts & fresh vegetables & berries

Get rid of ALL caloric drinks

And do it all w/o saying a word

Make their environment filled with satiating foods so that at least the food doesn’t make them keep eating

PLEASE. Don’t push them!

For every 10 parent that signs up their kids for our program we turn away about 8-9

Why?

Because when we get these kids alone and assess if they are ready for major change, most aren’t. Most don’t want to be there !

And if that’s the case me pushing them and meeting with them will only lower their confidence.

We have had ~10 patients under the age of 18, lose a significant amount of weight and keep it off

Each had the independent desire
STRONG family involvement
Good mental health management
And clear goals and expectations

These elements are all REQUIREMENTS

My heart goes out to pediatricians trying to make a difference.

I have talked to many pediatrician who want my help to set up programs for their young patients

They see their desperation.

They want to help but don’t know how…

I’ve been thinking about this issue for a long time & looking for resources because my gut tells me that without 150% parent involvement it’s not going to work.

I think we have to educate the parents first, and the kids last