ABSTRACT
The nutritional advice that is given to families with an obese child or adolescent reflects the changes that must be made by the family as a unit and is not designed for the obese child or adolescent alone. Obesity in the paediatric population differs from adults, as children and adolescents need to grow. In adolescent years weight doubles and height increases by 20%. The use of body mass index alone is not adequate to assess the severity of the obese state. Prior to instituting any changes, parents should assess the length of time spent watching television and time dedicated to organised sports and to family activities, which should include the child’s travel to school, whether they are brought by car, are brought by bus, use a bicycle or walk. The impact of obesity on the child and adolescent must be assessed in terms of its social impact. Specific inquiry must address teasing and bullying.
