Health Topics

Body Mass Index (BMI), is the measurement used to find out whether your child or teen is at a healthy weight for their age and height. BMI looks at both the height and weight. The BMI number is  plotted on a graph; much like height is plotted on growth charts. The graph tells you the percentile range for the BMI, based on the child’s age and gender. Ranges are given to take into account:

• normal differences in body fat between boys and girls
• differences in body fat at various ages
• how the child’s BMI stacks up against other children of the same age and gender 

• If the BMI is in the yellow area, your child may be underweight.
• If the BMI is in the green area, your child is at a healthy weight.
• If the BMI is in the light red area, your child may be overweight or obese.
• If the BMI is the dark red area, your child may be obese.
• If the BMI is the black area, your child may be severely obese

Children whose BMI falls in the overweight, obese or severely obese ranges should get treatment.

Obese children and teens are at a greater risk of many of the same health conditions affecting obese adults. Your healthcare provider can screen for these conditions. The most common risks include:

• High Blood Pressure
• Weaker bones and joints
• High Cholesterol
• Type 2 diabetes
• Coronary heart disease
• Stroke
• Gallbladder disease
• Sleep problems
• Breathing problems
• Some cancers
• Depression or social isolation

Working with your healthcare provider is the safest way to find out what method of obesity treatment will be best. In some families, it may be helpful to include a dietitian, psychologist, and an exercise specialist in treatment plans.

Since food choices and activity levels play an important role in managing weight they are usually the focus of obesity treatment programs.  If you want to get started making changes to diet and activity, try this easy to follow method recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics.  It is called the 5, 2,1, 0 approach. 

5:	Eat at least 5 fruit or vegetables servings every day.  Limit 100% fruit juices.
2:	Limit screen time (TV, video games and computer) to less than 2 hours per day.
1:	Get at least 1 hour of activity every day.  Go for a walk, play outside, dance or jump rope.
0:	Get Zero calories from drinks except for skim, fat-free or 1% milk.

In June 2011, the United States Department of Agriculture introduced My Plate. My Plate promotes using single servings of meats and grains at meals and covering the other half of the plate with fruits and vegetables.  Choosing whole grains whenever possible is also encouraged. 

For additional nutrition ideas and tips visit the webpage of www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.