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New Program Helps Children Succeed at Adapting Healthy Lifestyle Choices
When Nhan Phan saw the SHAPEDOWN program offered for the first time at Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center she knew immediately she wanted to enroll her eight-year-old son Steven. She had been worried about his weight and lack of physical activity since he was four. In just a few weeks, Phan began to understand how to approach a daily exercise regime and meal planning with Steven that now benefits the entire family.
The 10-week SHAPEDOWN program teaches children and their parents about food and nutrition, including the daily intake of food groups, portion sizes and eating habits in addition to living habits, the effects of emotional stress and physical activity. Each week, past weekly activities are reviewed and new nutrition concepts are presented that cater to the child's individual needs. Participants also get to engage with various guest speakers, from exercise physiologists and psychologists to registered dietitians and nurses who assist in helping the children succeed at adapting to healthy lifestyle choices.
The program is geared towards learning rather than as a weight loss plan and addresses the whole child not just his or her obesity or weight issues. Even though Steven has only lost one pound in five weeks, he said he likes learning about food options and as a snack he more often chooses a low-fat yogurt or salad over potato chips and other junk food.
"SHAPEDOWN is gentle enough so that almost any child or family could benefit from participating," said Janet Krzeminski, MSRD, LDN, Clinical Nutrition Manager at Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center. "All potentially harmful or distressing techniques are avoided including rigid or low-calorie diets. The program also enhances self-esteem, improves peer and family relationships, in addition to helping children adopt healthier habits," she added.
The program will be offered twice a year to as many as 15 children at a time. Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center will offer other community education programs so participants can continue to learn more about healthy lifestyle choices, including a three-week daily summer camp. For additional information, please contact 312-770-2444.
