Slim Down

Abstract

Over the last thirty years the proportion of children in the United States who are overweight or obese has been increasing, reflecting the dramatic trend that has been witnessed in the adult population. The significance of this trend is enormous when we consider the medical complications of obesity, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, gall bladder disease and the increased risk of certain types of cancer. Unquestionably, the best solution to the obesity problem is prevention, or at least, early intervention.

There are many diet schemes that promise quick, effortless results. The only legitimate approach to dealing with childhood obesity, however, is one that stresses improved fitness rather than weight loss. SLIM DOWN is an acronym developed after years of counseling overweight children in a private pediatric office setting. The emphasis is on incorporating healthy habits as part of a child's lifestyle. The goal is not a better weight, but better health.

About the Author

Dr. Palmieri is a graduate of the University of California, San Diego where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree with majors in psychology and physiology. After obtaining his medical degree from Loyola University of Chicago, Stritch School of Medicine, he completed his internship in Pediatrics at the University of Chicago and his residency at Loyola University Medical Center. He was then selected for the post of Chief Resident for the department of Pediatrics at Loyola University Medical Center.

Following his medical training Dr. Palmieri completed a three-year service obligation with the National Health Service Corps by working in an inner-city community health center on the South Side of Chicago. He is currently in private practice in general pediatrics in Mission, Texas where he lives with his wife and two children. Dr. Palmieri is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He is also a member of the Texas Pediatric Society, the Texas Medical Association, and the Association of Clinicians for the Underserved.