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Adult and childhood obesity have become epidemic problems throughout the United States and here in Western New York.

Pediatric obesity can start as early as the first day of conception. Healthy diet and lifestyle are important during pregnancy so that your baby is born with a good start on life and nutrition.

During infancy, breast milk is best for your baby for many reasons including obesity prevention. Baby foods should be introduced slowly and in moderation. Encourage healthy foods and portion sizes even during infancy and early toddlerhood.

Once your child is old enough for table foods, discourage excessive fat, sugar and salt intake in favor of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, healthy grains and low-fat dairy products. To be encouraged are healthy meals, at regular intervals; proper portion sizes; moderate consumption of snack foods; low-fat milk; and water throughout the day. Milk should only be given at meal times, and any sugary drink (including fruit juice) should be discouraged. Always allow your child plenty of time for fun exercise.

Around age 6, many children begin to gain weight in excess of height gain and BMI begins to rise. At age 6, your child is off to school and seeking food on his own. Food at home should still be monitored as should school nutrition. Too many kids become obese between the ages of 6 and 12.

At Amherst Pediatric Associates, we will be monitoring your child's growth and advising about nutrition starting at the first visit.

If your child is age 12 or older, is obese (BMI equal to or greater than the 95%) and is motivated to improve nutrition and lifestyle, Amherst Pediatric Associates has an intervention program of low intensity. We will evaluate your child, assess obesity risk factors, order appropriate studies and devise an obesity action plan. For this program to be successful, your 12-years-and-older child must be motivated to change. Call our office or request an appointment online to get started.

Some excellent handouts and resources include the following:

• PDF handouts that can be downloaded for healthy tips to take at different key ages (these handouts are based on the well-recognized 5-2-1-0 program):
  • Healthy Tips (ages 5 to 9)
  • Healthy Tips (ages 10 to 12)
  • Healthy Tips (ages 13 and up)
• Recommended websites include:
  • CDC BMI Calculator for Children Ages 2 to 19
  • CDC Tips for Parents
  • Michelle Obama and the Let's Move Initiative
  • 5-2-1-0 Program

Amherst Pediatric Associates
25 Hopkins Road
Williamsville, NY 14221
(716) 632-8050 (phone)
(716) 632-2297 (fax)

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Questions or Comments?

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest about our services. If you are interested in communicating with us electronically through the patient portal please contact the office at (716) 632-8050 and ask to speak with someone regarding activating your patient portal.