Clinic Helping Fight Against Childhood Obesity
Seema Mathur
Reporting
(CBS 42) AUSTIN Texas has the highest obesity rates of kids in the nation and that is leading to early health problems.
Health experts say as obesity rates increase, they are seeing a disturbing number of kids with Type 2 diabetes. That's why People's Community Clinic is trying to target families who are at risk.
Olalde, 11, was recently told he has negative cholesterol levels. His mom doesn't want it to get any worse.
That's why she went to the community clinic. There the family sees how cholesterol and fats affect blood flow.
“Then I’m not going to have any energy to run or play,” Olalde said.
Olalde and his mom learn about portion sizes. Dietitians say big meals, fast food and lack of exercise are some of the reasons why 35-percent of Texas kids are overweight.
“The children are developing diabetes at younger ages 10, 11, 12, even younger that,” said Susie Jastrow, a dietitian with the People’s Community Clinic.
To prevent obesity linked diabetes, Olalde learns to limit sodas and is surprised to learn how much sugar is in one drink
He has been eating fruits and veggies for the past month.
His mom says the transition was easier and cheaper than she thought.
An interesting part of the program is sitting in on the session is a food psychologist, she works to identify and build on how the family wants to change.
Health experts say it's really important that families take control of this early to prevent a host of health problems like diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure that can result from obesity.
Childhood Obesity Clinic