What is the Lifestyle Medicine Program?
The Lifestyle Medicine Program here at Children's Hospital Colorado is our weight management program providing multidisciplinary treatment options for obese or overweight infants, toddlers, school-age children and adolescents. We conduct a comprehensive medical assessment and provide treatment for:
- Infants or preschoolers with excessive weight gain and rapidly increasing weight/length or Body Mass Index (BMI)*
- Obese children and teens (BMI above the 99th percentile)
*You can obtain BMI information from your child’s primary care doctor or through the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) BMI calculator. The CDC also provides helpful information about assessing BMI in children.
Our treatment options focus on helping families to negotiate change and build skills in the areas of diet, activity and behavior – from interactive goal-setting to structured meal planning. Referrals may be made to our Sleep Center, physical therapy and other subspecialties as indicated.
Why choose the Lifestyle Medicine Program at Children’s Colorado?
At our hospital, we understand that every child is different and has different needs. As a result, we take an individualized, family-centered approach with every patient and family. Our team of experts will talk with you and your child about the best ways to make healthy choices. You will decide together on healthy goals, including changes in eating, activities, sleep and behavior.
You may work with a variety of specialists, including:
- A medical provider (doctor, nurse practitioner or physician assistant) to talk about health problems
- A dietitian to guide eating behaviors
- An activity specialist to help your child find their strengths in activity
- A psychologist to assist with weight and eating behaviors
What to expect from the Lifestyle Medicine Program
Our providers work to collaboratively set up a plan for weight management with your family. This could include individual visits with the dietitian, exercise classes and group classes.