ABSTRACT
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To review popular dietary trends and provide recommendations regarding validated dietary approaches for weight loss in the pediatric population. RECENT FINDINGS: Like adults, children and adolescents trying to lose weight will succumb to diets promoted by the media. Many of these so-called "fad" diets tout unsupported claims for health but prove very difficult for long-term adherence. Since childhood is a pivotal time for establishing lifestyle habits, we need to provide practical dietary advice supported by scientific research. Studies suggest that emphasizing macronutrient balance while limiting both ultraprocessed foods and sugar-sweetened beverages can help our pediatric patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight. We review literature discouraging the use of restrictive dieting in the pediatric population and instead encourage a whole-foods-based, balanced dietary approach, along with regular physical activity. The goal is to support reasonable and sustainable lifestyle habits that ultimately allow children to establish lifelong health-promoting behaviors.
