The participants and their parents were randomly allocated to one of three treatment groups: standard treatment, parental support group, or parental support group with additional follow-up telephone assistance.

In the standard treatment group, children and parents attended meetings led by a doctor, pediatrician, and/or dietitian, focusing on diet and exercise. The two parental support groups did not involve the children and emphasized ways in which parents could encourage healthy family lifestyles in a positive and conflict-free manner.

Principal investigator Paulina Nowicka, an Associate Professor in Pediatric Science at the Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, and a professor of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics at Uppsala University, explains, “These discussions may revolve around setting boundaries, teaching children new behaviors, and establishing effective communication with preschools, grandparents, neighbors, and other adults in the child’s environment.”

Subsequently, half of the participants who attended the parental support groups were randomly selected for a follow-up phone call. Professor Nowicka points out that while previous studies have examined children treated for obesity,most only had follow-ups after six months or a year, leaving a gap in data regarding the longer-term effects.

Early Intervention for Childhood Obesity: Long-lasting Positive Effects

The current study, as reported by Professor Nowicka and her colleagues, indicates that early intervention for obesity has a sustained impact. She states, “Children in all three groups exhibited improvements in their weight status and a reduction in their level of obesity.”

Notably, those whose parents received parental support demonstrated the most significant improvements, particularly when follow-up phone calls were included. Moreover, a larger proportion of children in this third group exhibited clinically meaningful enhancements in their weight status, associated with improved metabolic health, encompassing favorable levels of blood lipids and glucose.

Parents Should be Mindful of their Kid’s Food Choices

Professor Nowicka emphasizes that most parents are aware of the type of food they should provide their children. However, she highlights the challenge of dealing with a child who has a strong appetite or a constant desire for food. Establishing a clear routine at home is crucial, ensuring that the child anticipates regular meals. Additionally, fostering activities that strengthen family bonds, such as involving the child in cooking and offering vegetables when hungry, without using food as a reward, is important. It’s also vital to dissociate food from emotions and achievements.

Although treating obesity is a complex endeavor, Professor Nowicka asserts that the study demonstrates the safety and effectiveness of intensive intervention for preschool-aged children. She emphasizes, “Commencing treatment at this age is significantly more effective than initiating it during adolescence.” This early intervention approach aims to mitigate the need for potential bariatric surgery in adolescents.

“Let’s empower families today for a healthier tomorrow – because every child deserves a bright and healthy future.”

Reference :

1. Long-Term Follow-Up of a Randomized Controlled Trial to Reduce Excessive Weight Gain in Infancy: Protocol for the Prevention of Overweight in Infancy (POI) Follow-Up Study at 11 Years – (https:www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7735907/)

Source: Medindia