CHILDHOOD OBESITY
As a Pediatrician for nearly 40 years, former fat kid, and open heart surgery survivor, I have been concerned about the now worldwide epidemic of childhood obesity since my first book SLIM AND FIT KIDS: Raising Healthy Children in a Fast Food World, came out in 1999. Understanding of this problem has greatly improved since then, as we used to think that the entire problem boiled down to too much junk food, and not enough activity.
We now understand, and the American Academy of Pediatrics now focuses on the multi-factorial nature of the obesity conundrum. Their recent policy report and recommendations for preventing obesity and its health consequences focuses on a lifelong approach, emphasizing early intervention (even in utero), environmental and socioeconomic contributors, advertising, social media, genetics, family and dietary concerns, individualized lifestyle counseling and now the judicious administration of medications, specifically the GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide in children over age 12. The last factor is pivotal due to the alarming rise of Type 2 diabetes in children.
With the availability of these game changing medications, and now the more global approach to prevention and treatment of Adult and Childhood Obesity, I feel we now have the tools available to make a serious dent in this major public health challenge.
There remain some practical and financial concerns, however. Insurance coverage for medical care and medicines remains problematic, and many traditional physicians, including pediatricians may not have the time nor the inclination to take on the long term commitment of working with families facing the specter of childhood obesity and its long term health consequences.
This is where lifestyle wellness health coaching comes in. The concierge type health coaching program at MONACO Wellness provides accountability, ongoing availability, access to GLP-1 medications and personalized care all for a low monthly, all inclusive fee. If you or someone you know is facing family health challenges relating to adult or childhood obesity, call or text me for a free initial consultation. Together we can work to provide children and families with healthier, happier lives!
In health,
Dr. John Monaco
MONACO Wellness
(813) 541-6440
Comments