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The mission of the UVa Children's Fitness Clinic (CFC) is promoting a healthy lifestyle among children and decreasing childhood obesity through nutrition and activity goals. The CFC is a six-month program for children who are at or above the 85th percentile in body mass index (BMI), a measure of your child's weight relative to their height and a common method for assessing a person's health. The CFC is the first multidisciplinary weight management clinic in Virginia and includes a registered dietitian, an exercise physiologist, a nurse practitioner and a child psychologist. We provide a full range of services while tailoring a treatment plan to fit your child's needs.
Why a Healthy Lifestyle is Important
Being overweight or obese as a child can lead to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression, and a shorter life span. Making healthy lifestyle changes as soon as possible can help prevent these problems.
How the Clinic Can Help
The clinic's nurse practitioner, exercise physiologist, and registered dietitian perform an initial evaluation of your child, including a medical exam. Based on your child's specific needs, the clinic works closely with you and your child to develop a treatment plan with realistic goals for improving your child's health through dietary and lifestyle changes.
What Parents Can Do
Ask your child's healthcare provider to measure their BMI at each visit. If they are at or above the 85th percentile, ask for a referral to the clinic. You can also contact the clinic at any time if you are concerned about your child's weight or inactivity. It is never too soon to help your child make healthier lifestyle choices.
Your Child Should Be Referred If...
Their BMI is at the 85th percentile or higher.
Your family has a history of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, or obesity.
What About Insurance?
Most of our patients are referred by their primary care provider, though a referral is not always necessary. Please call your insurance company and inquire about coverage for our services.
Health Tips for Parents!
Limit liquid calories. Cutting out one 20-ounce soda and one 16-ounce juice or fruit flavored drink each day can reduce your child's calorie intake by 450 to 500 a day. This can add up to 3500 calories per week, which equals one pound.
Review your child's height, weight, and BMI and discuss their diet and activity level with your healthcare provider at each visit.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than 2 hours of screen time per day for children. This includes television, computers, video games and hand-held games.
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