Published: December 15, 2008
Help Your Child Reach 2009 Weight Loss Goals
Obesity experts offer advice to parents on how to help their children achieve long-term success
Weight loss resolutions aren't just for adults anymore, according to a recent survey* showing more than 40 percent of teens rank getting more exercise and weight loss as their top New Year's resolution.
"A New Year's resolution is a great way to get motivated to start losing weight, but the key is finding a sensible program that will greatly increase your chances of reaching that challenging goal," said Dr. Daniel Kirschenbaum, Clinical Director of Wellspring, the leading weight loss program for children and teens. "Key weight loss strategies include eating much less fat, keeping a food journal, taking 10,000 steps per day, and finding a support system that will help you stay focused."
Recognizing that children are battling similar weight issues as adults, experts at Wellspring encourage parents to get involved with their child's weight loss efforts. Setting lifestyle goals together will provide the modeling and support children need to maintain an effective weight loss program. Additionally, research indicates that family support can dramatically affect whether or not overweight children lose weight and keep it off.
A recent study, presented by Wellspring at The Obesity Society's 2008 Annual Scientific Meeting, suggests that family involvement in adopting a healthy lifestyle has a powerful impact on a child's long-term weight loss success. At a one-year follow-up evaluation, 78 percent of the initially overweight parents of very successful campers had lost weight themselves, compared to 40 percent of the initially overweight parents of less successful campers.
"It's a win-win. Not only is the child more likely to succeed with their parents' support, but parents with weight problems can also reap many of the benefits of adopting a healthy lifestyle at the same time," explained Dr. Kirschenbaum.
About Wellspring Weight Loss Programs
Wellspring Academies, Wellspring Camps and Wellspring Fit Clubs are recognized as the leading weight loss treatment programs for overweight children, teens and young adults. Founded in 2004 as Healthy Living Academies, the organization is now recognized under one name, Wellspring.
Wellspring offers programs for youth and adults, including year-round boarding schools, summer camps, after-school programs and adult retreats. Wellspring Academies boarding schools include Wellspring Academy of California and Wellspring Academy of the Carolinas; Wellspring Camps are located in New York, North Carolina, California, Texas, Wisconsin, Hawaii, and the United Kingdom, along with Wellspring Family Camp at Pinehurst Resort. Three new camps will open in 2009 in Florida, Pennsylvania and Vancouver.
The Sierras Weight-Loss Solution for Teens and Kids (Avery, 2007) was written by the founders and program leaders of Wellspring. The book offers parents a scientific, simple and sustainable program based on the successful approach pioneered in Wellspring.
To learn more about Wellspring weight loss programs, visit www.wellspringweightloss.com or call 866-364-0808. Wellspring is a division of CRC Health.
* Survey conducted by Allstate.
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