British Dietetic Association’s Obesity Specialist Group dietetic obesity management interventions in children and young people: review & clinical application

Abstract

Background Dietitians play a vital role in the management of childhood obesity. To support that role the Obesity Specialist Group of the British Dietetic Association commissioned a review and clinical application paper. This current paper is a summary of that review document, which is available on the BDA’s website. Methods The initial sources of evidence were guidelines, published reviews and government guidance. Best practice advice was sought from networks including the BDA’s Obesity and Paediatric Specialists groups. The original document was reviewed by a review group and members of the Obesity and Paediatric Specialist group’s committees. Results The overall aim of dietetic interventions in childhood weight management should be to deliver evidence based dietetic weight management care, which helps maintain positive lifestyle changes. To support this aim the review recommends the UK BMI cut off points in setting service referral and triaging criteria. Ensuring the whole child’s world is taken into account when undertaking assessment and throughout the programme process is essential. Dietitians working in this field require behavioural change skills, motivational techniques and the ability to communicate to children of differing ages and their parents. Knowledge of local child safe guarding procedures are necessary for all working in this field. Recommendations on basic and advanced skills required are specified. Conclusions This paper was written to compliment a full review document. The complexities around case management, child protection issues and competing family motivations require dietitians trained at undergraduate and postgraduate level to deliver high quality weight management and behavioural change.

The Covid‐19 pandemic and publishing in nutrition and dietetics

“…It is important to remember that just because we can measure something doesn't mean we should. In keeping with our aim to reflect the breadth and multidisciplinary nature of nutrition and dietetics research, JHND favours papers that advance the field, 15,16 establish novel methodologies and research tools, 17,18 have clinical impact, 19,20 and establish professional guidelines 21 …”

“…In keeping with our aim to reflect the breadth and multidisciplinary nature of nutrition and dietetics research, JHND favours papers that advance the field, 15,16 establish novel methodologies and research tools, 17,18 have clinical impact, 19,20 and establish professional guidelines. 21 The best pathway to having research published is to do research that is worthwhile and inspires others to read and build on the findings. Most of the research surrounding Covid-19 and nutrition was opportunistic, unplanned and will have no future application.…”

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“…It has been suggested that, to provide advice targeted towards specific food components (for example the reduction of the consumption of carbonated drinks and sugary foods or foods with a high caloric density), is more effective in weight control than providing advice on healthy eating. Supporting these long-term dietary changes has the potential to improve energy balance and decrease the BMI z-score in children and adolescents aged 2-18 years [21][22][23].…”

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the well-being of preschoolers: A parental guide

“…Rapid brain development occurs between 0 and 5 years of age [ 101 , 102 ]. Preschoolers are advised to consume frequent and balanced meals in adequate proportions [ 103 ]. Their daily diet should include at least five varieties of vegetables and fruits beside lean proteins and carbohydrates [ 104 ].…”