Weight management in childhood: Canadian dietitians' practices

Canadian dietitians specializing in pediatric practice were surveyed to provide a preliminary profile of the strategies they use to manage overweight youth. The survey was mailed to 298 dietitians belonging to the Dietitians of Canada's (DC) Pediatric Nutrition and Consulting Dietitians' Networks and to the head dietitians in Canadian pediatric hospitals across the country. It was also posted on the DC website and sent by electronic mail. Of the 164 respondents, 65 reported that they provide an intervention program to overweight youth. Growth charts, ideal body weight, and body mass index were mostly used to assess and monitor overweight. However, about 20% of the respondents did not define overweight in their client population. The majority of the clients were girls aged seven to 18. Most respondents used the healthful lifestyle approach via one-on-one consultation, included parents and collaborated with two or more health professionals for the management of these children. As the discussion on best practices for the prevention and treatment of overweight youth continues, we need further evidence to determine what strategies, if any, support positive outcomes in this group.