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Weight problems can take a physical and emotional toll no matter when they happen, but adolescence often magnifies those effects. Here’s how we can help your child set and achieve healthy weight goals and better wellness overall.
More than 40% of American kids are overweight or obese. As with adults, that puts them at increased risk of serious health problems, like heart disease and diabetes, now and in adulthood.
Losing weight isn’t any easier during adolescence than it is during adulthood. The good news: A weight management plan attuned to your child’s unique needs can help them shed those pounds and enjoy all the benefits of a slimmer, sleeker physique.
At Premier Physicians Weight Loss & Wellness in Las Vegas, Henderson, and Reno, Nevada, Dana Trippi, DO, and our team understand the physical and emotional tolls associated with being overweight during the teen and preteen years.
Our team works closely with each patient (and their parents) to establish a plan that helps them achieve healthy weight goals while being mindful of individual preferences and habits.
Adolescent weight gain: Why it happens
Teens and preteens gain weight for many of the same reasons as adults: sedentary lifestyles, poor eating habits, and even chronic stress (and stress-eating). Plus, they experience marked hormonal changes that increase body fat and appetite, especially in girls.
Many teens spend hours on their phones and computers, resulting in less time doing physical activity that burns calories. The easy availability of unhealthy processed and convenience foods makes weight gain even more likely, especially if your child tends to replace meals with snacks.
Certainly, being overweight takes a physical toll on teens. In addition to elevating their risks of health problems, carrying extra pounds makes it harder to take part in social activities and active extracurriculars, like sports.
On the emotional side, adolescents may struggle with body image issues, low self-esteem, and social isolation, especially if they face teasing or bullying. These challenges can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety or depression, leading to poor school performance.
A plan to succeed
At Premier Physicians Weight Loss & Wellness, our team helps adolescents find real, workable solutions to weight issues, focusing on the tools and actions that make a difference to your child’s physical health and emotional wellness.
Depending on your child’s needs, their plan may include:
- Health and life coaching tailored to the emotional and motivational needs of teens
- Parental involvement, recognizing the key role families play in weight loss success
- Physical activity tailored to your teen’s preferences
- Nutritional guidance focused on healthy yet satisfying food choices
- Behavior modification counseling to establish and lock in healthy habits
We also offer medication when appropriate for your child, particularly if they’re at significant risk of weight-related health problems.
During your child’s weight loss journey, we meet every two weeks to monitor their progress, offer support and encouragement, and adjust their plan as needed.
Visits can be in person or via telehealth for added convenience. Parents must be present at every visit; the initial consultation visit takes about an hour.
With a custom plan of their own, your child learns and practices healthy, positive behaviors that can last them through adulthood.
Set the stage for a healthier life
Being overweight is never easy, and losing those pounds is always challenging, regardless of age. If your child struggles with their weight, a custom weight-management plan could be the solution they need to see real, lasting results.
To learn more or get started on a plan for your teen or preteen, request an appointment online or over the phone with the team at Premier Physicians Weight Loss & Wellness today.