1 in 3 kids at risk for becoming overweight

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - According to the Office of the Surgeon General, studies show that currently 1 in 3 children and teens in America are either overweight or are at risk of becoming overweight. Overweight adolescents have a 70% chance of becoming overweight or obese adults.

There are several risks that excessive weight can have on our children.  Often times those that are overweight or obese are socially ostracized, which can lead to low self-esteem, as well as problems with academic and social development.  From a health standpoint, overweight or obese children are much more likely to develop cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Prevention of childhood obesity starts with simple things like diet and exercise.  Experts agree that inactivity and poor eating habits contribute to obesity.  National guidelines recommend 150 minutes of physical activity each week for elementary children and 225 minutes for older children. 

If your child is overweight or at risk for obesity, Helen DeVos Children's Hospital Healthy Weight Center has programs that can help.  The center offers a comprehensive program for children and adolescents ages 5 to 17.  They work to develop the best practices in medical treatment, nutrition information, education, exercise and clinical research to help children attain and maintain optimal weight.

Pediatric obesity is a complex condition that requires a multi-disciplinary medical response. The Helen DeVos Children's Hospital Healthy Weight Center brings together a knowledgeable team which includes:

• Pediatricians who are also involved in medical resident training
• Premiere researchers in the area of pediatric obesity
• Pediatric trained exercise physiologist
• Pediatric certified registered dietician
• Pediatric trained, licensed masters-level social worker
• Pediatric trained psychologist

For more information:

Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital Healthy Weight Center
330 Barclay NE, Suite 300
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
616.391.8810
helendevoschildrens.org/healthyweightcenter