Many kids in America struggle with their weight. While factors like hormones and genes cannot be changed, other reasons like poor eating habits and too much screen time can be improved. Parents play a key role in helping their kids not only lose weight but improve their overall health. A growing problem Data from the […]
Teamwork makes the dream work: Akron Children’s takes a multidisciplinary approach to confront childhood obesity
Childhood obesity continues to be a growing problem in this country. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the obesity prevalence is nearly 13% among 2 to 5 year olds; 20% among 6 to 11 year olds; and 22% among 12 to 19 year olds. These kids are at a greater risk for […]
Pediatric bariatric surgery is transformational for young woman, now 20
It’s been 3 years since we last visited Riley Ickes, one of the first teen patients to undergo bariatric surgery at Akron Children’s. At the time, Riley was attending high school online, happily shopping for new clothes, because she was down 63 pounds, and juggling a new exercise routine with an after-school job at Wal-Mart. […]
Nutritionist-approved tips to help teens adopt healthier eating habits
Teenagers are on the go, whether it’s off to sports practice, hanging with friends or heading to a study group. So when it comes to food, they are looking for fast and convenient—and they typically don’t have health on their minds. “As teens become more independent, spending time outside the home and away from parents, […]
Do’s and don’ts when talking to kids about weight
Weight can be a sensitive topic, but a necessary one, especially where your child’s health is concerned. Dr. Geoffrey Putt, a pediatric psychologist at Akron Children’s provides some tips on how to get a conversation with your kiddo started. Do’s for talking to kids about weight Do acknowledge your own biases, struggles and insecurities with […]
5 Ps: The secret to helping kids avoid holiday weight gain
You hear about the dreaded extra 10 pounds many adults gain this time of year, but kids, too, can pack on a few extra “L-Bs.” When you mix lots of goodies and extra calories with time off from school, when kids tend to indulge in sedentary activities, like TV and video games, you get holiday […]
