Pediatric Weight Management

Prevalence of Obesity among Children in Pakistan

The rate of childhood obesity in Pakistan has been an escalating problem, reflecting worldwide patterns. The Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-2018 found that around 9.5% of children below the age of 5 were identified as overweight or obese. This data illustrates a substantial surge in comparison to previous years, suggesting a growing trend in childhood obesity rates within the nation.

What causes Obesity?

There are several factors contributing to Obesity, some of which are

• Family history
• Unhealthy diet
• Lack of physical activities
• Poor sleep patterns
• Environmental factors
• Psychological disorders

How do I know my Child is Obese?

To assess if a child has a suitable weight, we calculate his/her Body Mass Index (BMI), which evaluates their weight to their height. However, when it comes to children, we cannot just rely on the standard BMI used for adults. Children undergo significant physiological transformations during their developmental years, necessitating the utilization of specialized growth charts tailored for individuals between the ages of 2 and 18. The BMI centile range includes:

• Under 3rd percentile – underweight
• 3rd to 85th percentile – healthy range
• 85th to 95th percentile – overweight
• 95th percentile and above – obese

Health issues associated with being Overweight in Childhood

• Type 2 Diabetics
• Menstrual problems in girls
• Fatty liver
• Joint problems
• Breathing problems
• High cholesterol level
• High blood pressure
• Ongoing monitoring and support

My Healthy Food Plate

These are the given food groups

Grains: include whole wheat roti, oatmeal, barley porridge, white boiled rice, or brown rice.

Fruits: All fruits are recommended including dry fruits but avoid using canned fruits with sugar syrup.

Vegetables: Eat a variety of vegetables and avoid using raw salads that have been made for a very long time.

Protein: Protein sources include, chicken, fish, eggs, beans, legumes, peas, and nuts. Avoid using, processed foods such as tuna, and sausages.

Dairy: This includes, low-fat milk, cheese, and low-fat yogurt.

Staying Active for a Healthy life

To support their growth and development, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition recommend that children ages 3 to 5 engage in physical activity throughout the day. It is advised that older children, ranging in age from six to seventeen years, engage in a minimum of one hour of daily physical activity.

Screen time

Being overweight and obesity, have been linked to an excessive amount of screen time among children and adolescents. Sedentary behaviors, which decrease levels of physical activity and elevate the likelihood of weight gain, are invariably associated with extended screen time, according to numerous studies.

Sleeping Habits

Ensuring your child gets enough sleep is just as important for their general well-being as having a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity. Adequate sleep is essential for your child's mental and physical well-being, allowing them to excel in several areas of life. Sufficient sleep can enhance your child's academic performance, boost their immune system to prevent infections and help them maintain a healthy weight. Children need more sleep than adults because of their growing bodies and maturing brains. Optimal sleep duration differs by age, with distinct recommendations provided for each age category.

Age Group		Sleep time
1 to 2 years		11-14 hours
3 to 5 years		10-13 hours
6 to 12 years		9-12 hours
13 to 18 years		8-10 hours

Healthy kids Snacks Ideas

Healthy snack options include:

• Vegetable Sticks
• Vegetable soup
• Air-popped popcorn
• Chickpeas
• Sweet Potato Fries
• Grilled Chicken
• Fruit salad
• Low-fat yogurt with berries

Guidelines to Promote a Healthy Lifestyle

• As a parent do not focus on the numbers on the weight scale, your priority should be the healthy growth of your child.
• Always serve breakfast even if it is on the run.
• Organize and plan your meals so that there is not any impulsive junk eating.
• Acquire low-calorie and low-fat meals, snacks, and desserts. Select low-fat or skim milk and diet beverages. Avoid storing high-calorie desserts or snacks like snack chips, regular soft drinks, or conventional ice cream in your cupboard.
• Prevent your child from consuming meals or snacks in rooms other than the kitchen or dining room. Consider implementing a house rule against eating while watching TV.
• Involve the entire family. Incorporate healthy food habits and consistent activity into your family's routine. It is more convenient for everyone in the household to adhere to these standards collectively rather than leaving the responsibility solely to your child.
• Treat them with their favorite stuff once in a while.
• Do not shatter the self-esteem of your child, support them and motivate them to live a healthy life.

How can I help my Child is Obese or Overweight?

A family must gradually adjust its lifestyle to support an obese child. Encourage healthy eating by providing nutritious meals and snacks and limiting sugary drinks and processed foods. Give children engaging physical activity and restrict screen time. Make sure your child feels comfortable talking about their weight and get advice from childhood obesity specialists. Promote body positivity, recognize small prevails, and remember that improvement takes time. Your family may help your child live healthier by working together and showing love, encouragement, and understanding.

Getting Support for Pediatric Weight Management right at home with The Food Balance Clinics

The Paediatric Weight Management Programme at The Food Balance is a specialized program aimed at assisting children and adolescents in attaining and sustaining a healthy weight. This is accomplished through a holistic strategy that encompasses nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle management. The program is specifically designed to cater to the distinct requirements of children and adolescents who may be experiencing overweight or obesity, intending to promote long-term physical and mental health. After assessment, our nutritionist develops the plan which includes:

• Nutritional counseling
• Physical activity guidance
• Ongoing monitoring and support

Contact us The Food Balance Clinics allow families to cultivate good lifestyle changes and promote lifelong wellness for their children by encouraging healthy habits within the home setting.

The Food Balance Clinics

The Paediatric Weight Management Programme at The Food Balance is a specialized program aimed at assisting children and adolescents in attaining and sustaining a healthy weight. This is accomplished through a holistic strategy that encompasses nutrition, physical activity, and lifestyle management. The program is specifically designed to cater to the distinct requirements of children and adolescents who may be experiencing overweight or obesity, intending to promote long-term physical and mental health. After assessment, our nutritionist develops the plan which includes:

• Nutritional counseling
• Physical activity guidance
• Ongoing monitoring and support

Conclusion

Ultimately, a tailored weight management program for children focuses on promoting healthy eating, engaging in pleasurable physical activities, and supporting family members to establish positive habits from a young age. Creating a welcoming environment that promotes balanced lifestyle choices can help youngsters acquire skills to sustain a healthy weight and overall well-being throughout their lives.