Understanding and Managing Childhood Obesity

Many children in the United States are living with obesity, which can put them at risk for health issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 20% of children and adolescents are currently living with obesity. At Omaha Childrens Clinic, Dr. Tricia Schmit, Dr. John Vann, and certified pediatric nurse practitioners Nicholle Bruhn and Susan Connelly are here to help your child achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Let's take a look at some of the reasons why childhood obesity happens, as well as how we can work as a team to help your child feel their best.

What Causes Childhood Obesity?

While there are some genetic and medical issues that can cause a child to become obese, most children who carry extra weight do so due to eating unhealthy food and living a fairly sedentary lifestyle. 

There are some behavioral factors that can play into the development of obesity, including spending little time engaged in physical activities, spending lots of time looking at a screen (including cell phones, tablets, computers, and television), eating high-calorie foods that do not deliver a high level of nutrients, and eating bigger portions. Access to high-calorie foods and a lack of opportunities for outdoor play in some areas can also play a role. 

Managing Childhood Obesity

If your child is obese, we'll work closely with your family to create a plan that helps your child improve their health. Weight loss is not always the goal for children who are obese—in fact, some children are able to "grow into" their weight over time as their height increases. 

Your child's care plan may include a variety of factors, including family counseling, individual or group therapy aimed at behavior modification around food, increased exercise, diet modification, and nutritional counseling.

Reach Out to Omaha Childrens Clinic, in Omaha, NE for Pediatric Obesity Support

At Omaha Childrens Clinic, Dr. Schmit, Dr. Vann, and Nicholle Bruhn, CPNP-PC, and Susan Connelly are here to help your child feel their best, as well as meet all of your family's pediatric healthcare needs. We're excited about getting to know your family. Reach out to our Omaha, NE team today at (402) 330-5690 to set up your child's first appointment.