By Michael Walton, Myvoicedc Contributor 

Myvoicedc.com family, what an exciting time we are living in!  Seeing so many of us come together for the Inauguration of President Obama was such a beautiful site to behold. I believe that it shows so many things about the character of our country, one of those characteristics being that when we unite and come together on one accord there is nothing that we cannot accomplish! 

I am quite sure that you would all agree that there is nothing more important than our children.  They represent all of the promise for the future of our great nation.  As adults, one of the things that we must unite on is the fight against the current childhood obesity epidemic.  It’s up to us to enlighten them and to show them the right way by example so that they might grow to be healthy adults and leaders of our country.  With that being said this week I am bringing you information on the involvement of the healthcare system and tips on what to ask when taking your child to the doctor.  This information comes courtesy of The Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s Healthcare Initiative. 

The Alliance brokers voluntary agreements with health insurers and self-insured employers to reimburse for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of childhood obesity. The Alliance believes the healthcare industry can play a meaningful role in curtailing childhood obesity.  To learn more about the how to get involved or for general information on the health costs and effects of childhood obesity please  email:  Healthcare@HealthierGeneration.org.

What to Ask at the Doctor’s Office

-  How is my child’s weight?

Does your child need to lose weight, gain weight or maintain his or her current weight? Some kids will grow into their weight; while others may need to shed a few pounds.

-  If my child is overweight, what are the next steps?

Tell your doctor about any health problems that run in your family such as diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure. If your child is already overweight or obese or has a family medical history that could put him or her at risk you may need to ask your doctor for additional tests.

-  Do you plot and track my child’s Body Mass Index (BMI)?

BMI is a ratio of height and weight used to determine a healthy body type. While BMI is not a perfect indicator of being overweight or obese, right now it’s the most common and accepted measure. Many providers track children’s BMI but some don’t—so just ask your practitioner. Tracking BMI is a good way to monitor your child’s weight as they grow.  To track your child’s BMI yourself use the tool provided at the following link: http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/dnpabmi/Calculator.aspx
In addition to these great tips we have insight from Dr. Keri Marshall, a general practitioner and the mother of an Alliance Youth Advisory Board member,  Dawson, who had the following to say: 

“One of the most important things for a parent to consider when visiting their child’s doctor is to be open and honest regarding your concerns about your child’s health, weight or lack of physical activity. In an effort to not be embarrassed, we often don’t disclose the full truth about what we eat, or how much of it as well as the amount of time spent exercising. If you are unaware of you or your child’s day-to-day eating and exercising patterns, try keeping a daily food and exercise log for just three days. It can be very revealing when you begin to document exactly what you consume.
The more honest you are, the more realistic the goals that can be set. In the end, your physician wants you and your family to be healthy. If your doctor is not experienced in understanding the role that diet and exercise can play in a healthy lifestyle, don’t be afraid to ask for a referral to someone who can help you.”
Well said!  For my next post I will address how to better assist schools in providing a health conscious environment for our children.  Until then stay focused, I have my eye on you!