Treatments for weight loss in children and young people

Childhood and adolescent obesity is a growing health concern worldwide, with potential long-term consequences such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mental health issues. Effective treatments for weight loss in children and young people aim to promote sustainable, healthy habits while addressing underlying causes. Here’s an overview of the treatment options available.

Lifestyle modifications

Lifestyle changes form the cornerstone of weight loss treatments for children and young people. These interventions focus on developing healthy habits that can be sustained throughout life:

• Dietary improvements:
  • Emphasising a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.
  • Reducing intake of sugary drinks, processed foods and unhealthy snacks.
  • Portion control to prevent overeating.
• Physical activity:
  • Encouraging at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise daily, such as cycling, swimming or team sports.
  • Limiting sedentary activities, such as screen time, to fewer than two hours a day.
• Behavioural changes:
  • Family-based approaches to ensure a supportive home environment.
  • Setting achievable goals and celebrating small successes.
  • Addressing emotional triggers for overeating through counselling or therapy.

Medical interventions

For children and adolescents with severe obesity or obesity-related complications, medical treatments may be considered in addition to lifestyle changes:

• Medications:
  • In select cases, weight-loss medications approved for use in adolescents, such as orlistat, may be prescribed. Orlistat reduces fat absorption in the gut and is used under medical supervision.
  • Ongoing research is evaluating newer treatments, including medications targeting appetite regulation.
• Specialist support:
  • Referrals to dietitians, paediatricians or endocrinologists for tailored medical and nutritional advice.
  • Weight management programmes designed for children, focusing on gradual and safe weight reduction.

Surgical options

Bariatric surgery is rarely recommended for young people but may be considered in extreme cases where severe obesity poses immediate health risks:

• Procedures like gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy may be offered for adolescents with a BMI over 40 (or over 35 with obesity-related health conditions).
• Surgery is typically a last resort and only considered after lifestyle and medical interventions have failed.

Psychological support

Weight management in children often requires addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of obesity:

• Counselling or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help young people build a healthy relationship with food and their body image.
• Support groups or peer programmes to foster motivation and reduce feelings of isolation.

The role of family and healthcare providers

Successful weight loss in children and young people often depends on family involvement and a multidisciplinary approach. Parents and caregivers play a vital role in modelling healthy behaviours, while healthcare providers offer guidance tailored to the child’s individual needs. By addressing physical, emotional and social factors, children and young people can achieve and maintain a healthy weight, improving their overall well-being and long-term health prospects.