If we don’t somehow stem the tide of childhood obesity, we’re going to have a huge problem.
Lance Armstrong
What is Childhood Obesity?
Childhood obesity is a medical condition where a child’s health and wellbeing are impacted by a high level of body fat that is in excess for their height. This is measured by body mass index (BMI) percentiles. Obesity can be caused by a mix of genetic, behavioural, and environmental factors, including an imbalance of calories in and out. It is now known obesity is a hormonal problem and weight loss medication is approved for children 12 years and above. Also, medical guidelines recommend weight loss surgery for children 13 years and above. It is linked to long term health risks like diabetes, heart disease, and low self-esteem, however early intervention can prevent complications and improve the quality of life. At Happy Kids Pediatrics, we are here to help manage your child’s obesity. We understand the BMI is not the only way to measure your child’s health, and we do not diagnose obesity without examining the multiple markers of health and the build of your child.
What is Childhood Obesity?
Childhood obesity is a medical condition where a child’s health and wellbeing are impacted by a high level of body fat that is in excess for their height. This is measured by body mass index (BMI) percentiles. Obesity can be caused by a mix of genetic, behavioural, and environmental factors, including an imbalance of calories in and out. It is now known obesity is a hormonal problem and weight loss medication is approved for children 12 years and above. Also, medical guidelines recommend weight loss surgery for children 13 years and above. It is linked to long term health risks like diabetes, heart disease, and low self-esteem, however early intervention can prevent complications and improve the quality of life. At Happy Kids Pediatrics, we are here to help manage your child’s obesity. We understand the BMI is not the only way to measure your child’s health, and we do not diagnose obesity without examining the multiple markers of health and the build of your child.
What are the Signs of Childhood Overweight and Obesity?
- BMI above the 85th percentile for age and sex
- Rapid or excessive weight gain
- Stretch marks on the skin
- Difficulty with physical activity or fatigue
- Sleep apnea or snoring
- Joint pain or discomfort
- Darkened skin (acanthosis nigricans) especially around the neck or armpits
- Emotional or social challenges like low self-esteem or bullying
What are the Signs of Childhood Overweight and Obesity?
- BMI above the 85th percentile for age and sex
- Rapid or excessive weight gain
- Stretch marks on the skin
- Difficulty with physical activity or fatigue
- Sleep apnea or snoring
- Joint pain or discomfort
- Darkened skin (acanthosis nigricans) especially around the neck or armpits
- Emotional or social challenges like low self-esteem or bullying
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Book your in-person or telemedicine appointment with us today!
How do I Know if My Child Has Obesity?
If your child is gaining weight rapidly or has a BMI in the obese range, it could be a sign of obesity. Regular checkups with your child’s Happy Kids Pediatrician can help monitor their growth and early recognition of unwanted weight gain. We will assess your child’s medical history, diet, and physical activity levels, and screen for underlying medical conditions. We encourage healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and emotional support to help your child develop a positive relationship with food and their body.
How do I Know if My Child Has Obesity?
If your child is gaining weight rapidly or has a BMI in the obese range, it could be a sign of obesity. Regular checkups with your child’s Happy Kids Pediatrician can help monitor their growth and early recognition of unwanted weight gain. We will assess your child’s medical history, diet, and physical activity levels, and screen for underlying medical conditions. We encourage healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and emotional support to help your child develop a positive relationship with food and their body.
How We Treat Obesity at Happy Kids
One of the hardest health goals for our children is to maintain a healthy weight, and more so without becoming overly concerned about how they look and how they eat. Reaching a healthy weight does not involve only reducing calories and working out more. It is now recognized that achieving a healthy weight is a multi-specialty and a multi-modality treatment regimen. We encourage families to monitor BMI trends, and for ages 2 years and above to consider fasting lab tests for glucose, lipids, and much more.
If you think your child may benefit from an evaluation for healthy weight, consider making an appointment for a consultation or screening. We are happy to create an individualized treatment plan so your child can lead a healthy and happy life!
How We Treat Obesity at Happy Kids
One of the hardest health goals for our children is to maintain a healthy weight, and more so without becoming overly concerned about how they look and how they eat. Reaching a healthy weight does not involve only reducing calories and working out more. It is now recognized that achieving a healthy weight is a multi-specialty and a multi-modality treatment regimen. We encourage families to monitor BMI trends, and for ages 2 years and above to consider fasting lab tests for glucose, lipids, and much more.
If you think your child may benefit from an evaluation for healthy weight, consider making an appointment for a consultation or screening. We are happy to create an individualized treatment plan so your child can lead a healthy and happy life!
Book an Appointment
Book your in-person or telemedicine appointment with us today!
Clinic Hours
Mon-Sat: 8:00am – 7:00pm
Sun: Office Closed
For same day appointment, contact us or visit our portal.