Management of overweight and obesity in adolescents: an integral lifestyle approach

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents is still too high and represents a pool of latent morbidity. Data from Spain reveal an alarming increase in the prevalence of obesity in children and youth. Treatment of obesity seems easy, that is, just advice children and their families to eat less and to exercise more. In practice, however, treatment of childhood obesity is time-consuming, frustrating, difficult, and expensive.

According to evidence, what seems to be the most successful approach is intensive lifestyle modification that includes guidance on dietary aspects, food-related factors, physical activity, and behavioral strategies. Family support is of utmost importance. All of these considerations are essential for developing and implementing preventive measures specifically directed toward children and adolescents.