Pediatric Nutrition and Obesity Prevention

At Banner Children’s, we understand how important nutrition is to your child’s growth, development and long-term health. Our pediatric nutrition experts partner with families to create personalized plans that support healthy eating, prevent obesity and manage medical conditions. Together, we can help your child build strong habits that last a lifetime. 

What is pediatric nutrition? 

Pediatric nutrition focuses on supporting the health and well-being of children as they grow. This includes: 

• Encouraging balanced food choices 
• Teaching healthy eating habits 
• Helping families prevent childhood obesity 
• Supporting children with special dietary needs or medical conditions 

Good nutrition early in life sets the foundation for a healthier future. 

Causes of childhood obesity 

While diet and activity level play a big role in childhood obesity, they aren’t the only factors. Genetics, hormone levels and certain medical conditions can also contribute. 

Children may be at greater risk of becoming overweight or obese if they: 

• Have a family history of obesity 
• Have limited access to healthy foods or safe places to be active 
• Spend a lot of time in front of screens 
• Drink sugary beverages regularly 
• Don’t get enough sleep 

Understanding the causes helps families make informed choices about prevention and care. 

Health risks linked to obesity in children 

Childhood obesity can raise the risk of developing serious health problems over time, including: 

• Type 2 diabetes 
• Heart disease and high cholesterol 
• High blood pressure 
• Bone and joint problems 
• Emotional health challenges, such as low self-esteem 

In some cases, if lifestyle changes alone are not enough, older children and teens may be candidates for adolescent bariatric surgery. 

How to help prevent childhood obesity 

Families play an important role in promoting healthy habits. You can lower your child’s risk of obesity by: 

• Being active together – plan walks, bike rides or sports as a family 
• Eating meals together – family meals encourage healthier food choices 
• Limiting screen time – balance TV, video games and device use with physical activity 
• Avoiding sugary drinks – choose water or milk instead of soda and juice 
• Promoting good sleep – aim for consistent bedtimes and enough hours of rest 

Even small changes in daily routines can make a difference over time. 

Pediatric outpatient nutrition program 

Banner Children’s offers a Pediatric Outpatient Nutrition program designed to support kids and families through medical nutrition therapy. During your visit, our team will: 

• Assess your child’s nutritional status 
• Review your family’s knowledge and goals 
• Create a customized nutrition plan 

Many insurance plans now cover medical nutrition therapy. Be sure to confirm coverage with your insurance provider. 

Conditions that benefit from nutrition therapy 

Pediatricians often refer children to our program for conditions such as: 

• Cancer and treatment-related nutrition needs 
• Celiac disease and gluten intolerance 
• Diabetes 
• Dyslipidemias (high cholesterol, triglycerides) 
• Gastrointestinal disorders 
• Food allergies 
• High blood pressure and hypertension 
• Failure to thrive or feeding concerns in infants 
• Renal (kidney) disease 
• NICU graduate follow-up nutrition 
• Vegetarian and specialized diets 
• Obesity and weight management 

Our goal is to support your child’s growth and overall health with a plan that works for your family. 

Why choose Banner Children’s for pediatric nutrition 

At Banner Children’s, we know every child is unique. That’s why we provide individualized nutrition care tailored to your child’s needs and your family’s lifestyle. From preventing obesity to managing complex medical conditions, we’re here to help you raise healthy, thriving kids.