America’s children are facing a major health crisis of obesity. The Centers for Disease Control reports 32% of American children are overweight. That number has doubled from the 1980s. What’s worse, 17% of the nation’s children and teens are considered obese. That number has tripled in the same time span. Our kids are locked in a vicious, unhealthy cycle that can create lifelong medical problems unless there’s a dramatic lifestyle change.
“I am bringing PowerPlay™ to the Queen City because I believe it is critical to intervene at an early age to disrupt this dangerous cycle,” says Dr. Matt Neulander, Medical Director at Medi-Weightloss Clinics® in North Carolina. “Current research shows 80% of children ages 10-15 who battle obesity persist to become obese adults by age 25 and if not treated, adult obesity can lead to the full complement of weight-associated conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.”
Powerplay™ was designed by trained physicians and medical experts in the fields of pediatrics, public health, bariatrics and education. It is one of the first physician–supervised, comprehensive weight loss programs designed specifically to meet the needs of adolescents aged 12-18. Powerplay™ consists of individual and family consultation to provide guidance, motivation and support, along with multivitamin and calcium supplements specially formulated for teens, plus nutrition and exercise education.
The Powerplay™ program counters the major catalysts for childhood obesity; lack of physical activity, increased portion size, poor diet, the overabundance of fast food and increased screen time (both television and computer). In addition, weight gain can make it even more difficult for a child to exercise due to embarrassment or rapid exhaustion, which increases the chances of further weight gain. The cycle continues until the child begins to suffer from weight related medical conditions such as asthma and diabetes. These issues may further the development of low self-esteem and even depression, which in turn can lead to increased eating and diminished exercise.
“I have seen what obesity does to children- mentally and physically- in my work at Miami Children’s Hospital,” says pediatrician Dr. Sejal Shah, medical director for PowerPlay™. “As a mother of two children, I know every parent wants the best for their child. That’s why I’m confident the PowerPlay™ program can improve the health and quality of life for every children enrolled in the program.”
Medi-Weightloss Clinics® is now offering PowerPlay™ in its three Charlotte, NC locations: Ballantyne, South Park, and Northlake, Midlothian, and Glen Allen, VA, and Irmo, SC. Please call for more information or visit www.mediweightlossclinics.com
