Weight Management

Carrying excess weight as a child poses several health risks. Children who are overweight are more likely to develop chronic illnesses as they age, including metabolic syndrome ,heart disease, type 2 diabetes, bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and others.

Why Is Excess Weight Unhealthy?

Carrying excess weight as a child poses several health risks. Children who are overweight are more likely to develop chronic illnesses as they age, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, asthma, bone and joint problems, sleep apnea, and others. Children who are overweight are also more likely to experience bullying from peers, which can lead to a variety of emotional and mental health concerns. In addition, overweight children are more likely to become obese as adults, which increases the risk of chronic illnesses and several types of cancer.

Why Is Low Weight Unhealthy?

Just as carrying too much weight is unhealthy for children, low weight can also pose health risks. Underweight children are less likely to be fit and healthy, and they are more likely to have low bone density. Children who are underweight may also be malnourished, which leads to many other health concerns. Girls who lack sufficient body fat may not enter puberty at the appropriate time, or they may experience irregular menstrual cycles.

What Weight Management Services Are Available?

Children who are overweight or underweight may benefit from weight management. Dr. Nahas designs weight management programs to help children return to a healthy weight and maintain it over time. For children who are overweight, weight management programs may include a restricted calorie diet, changes in regular eating habits, choosing nutritious ingredients, and an exercise regimen.

For children who are underweight, the treatment program may include increased calorie intake of nutritious foods, and a healthy amount of exercise designed to build healthy muscle mass. Regardless of whether a child is overweight or underweight, Dr. Nahas will help the child and/or the child’s parents to make healthier food choices in order to ensure that the child is receiving proper nutrition.

When is Weight Management Necessary?

Weight management may be necessary for any child who is significantly overweight or underweight. Dr. Nahas will recommend weight management services after evaluating the child’s weight in relation to other factors, including age and height.

Take The First Step Today On Your child's

Journey Back To Health

Perhaps you have questions you’d like to ask before you make a decision to become a patient. Our patient coordinator is standing by, happy to answer any questions you have to determine if Covington Pediatrics is right for you. Simply call to speak with our patient coordinator at 770-787-7444.