A diet that is too high in calories and disorganized (eating at any time) promotes overweight, as well as growing up in a disadvantaged socio-economic environment, in the city and with few possibilities of exercising physically. A difficult life event (bullying, moving, separation from parents, birth of a brother or sister) can trigger weight gain: “If the child suddenly gains weight or starts to deviate from its curve, it is important to react, because if nothing is done, corpulence is likely to increase with age”, declares Dr. Albane Maggio, head of the Health and Movement consultation at the University Hospitals of Geneva (HUG). Indeed, the longer a situation of obesity persists, the greater the risk of chronicity and complications. For self-image too, the problem must be taken seriously. “At first, it is a question of limiting weight gain and reassuring, especially if the young person suffers from it”, continues the pediatrician.
At the HUG, for example, the approach is multidisciplinary (dietician and dietitian, doctor, psychologist, nurses, sports teachers and mistresses): “We delicately approach the subject of lifestyle and the more psychological aspects. We ask a lot of questions to get to know the families better and understand what can be concretely improved in order to set realistic goals for the child and his parents,” explains Dr. Maggio. Group sessions, depending on the age of the child, are often offered. On the program as needed: work on eating habits, bodily sensations, body image, physical activity, managing emotions, self-esteem, bonding with parents, peers, etc. . If weight loss is not the priority, it often results from learning new habits and becoming aware of the issues around food.