Structured Dietary Interventions in the Treatment of Severe Pediatric Obesity: A Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Structured dietary interventions have been associated with improved outcomes in adult weight-control programs, but virtually no research has focused on children. Thus, we conducted an uncontrolled pilot study to determine the potential utility of structured approaches to enhance the dietary component of family-based treatment of severe pediatric obesity (body mass index [BMI] >97th percentile for age and sex).

METHOD: Children aged 8-12 years participated with a parent or guardian. Individualized menu plans were provided (MENU, n=12) alone, or along with meals and snacks for the child (MENU+MEAL, n=6). All families received up to $30/week reimbursement for foods included in the menus.

RESULTS: Median BMI change was -1.2 kg/m(2) for MENU (n=12), and -1.8 kg/m(2) for MENU+MEAL (n=6). Both approaches were associated with significant reductions in BMI (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Structured dietary interventions for severe pediatric obesity are acceptable to families and warrant further development.