Obesity
The epidemic of pediatric obesity is generating increasing concern among pediatricians, researchers and public health professionals.
A recent supplement to Pediatrics, December 2007, provides valuable information for the practicing pediatrician. This series of four articles (see right) delineates recommendations for assessing and treating overweight and obese patients. Useful diagnosis codes are listed in the third article.
A book which both pediatricians and parents may find interesting is Ending the Food Fight by David Ludwig, MD, PhD. Dr. Ludwig’s main research interest is the low-glycemic index diet. He founded the Optimal Weight for Life (OWL) program at Children’s Hospital Boston.
Useful websites for providers, parents and patients located on the right side of this screen:
- http://www.glycemicindex.com/ is a website with further information about the glycemic index
- www.NICHQ.org links to the Childhood Obesity Action Network and useful tables with practical information that can be used at well child visits.
- www.healthydiningfinder.com is where restaurants list nutrition information of various menu offerings
- www.cookinglight.com offers many healthy recipes with nutrient analysis
- www.4women.gov offers a toolkit to help parents and caregivers of girls ages 9 to 13 improve family eating and activity habits