Should weight-loss supplements be used for pediatric obesity?
OBJECTIVE
In my clinic I have a large population of overweight and obese children. There is a range of weight-loss supplements marketed for the adult population. What natural health products for treatment of obesity are effective and can be used in children?


CONCLUSIONS
Weight-loss supplements lack sufficient data supporting their efficacy and safety, even in adults. Most weight-loss supplements cannot be recommended at this time for children. Options for obese adolescents include increasing consumption of fibre with diet or using fibre supplements, such as glucomannan. Dietary fibres can also prevent side effects of orlistat, the only medication available for treatment of obese adolescents.
Rogovik
Alex L
AL
Pediatric Research in Emergency Therapeutics (PRETx) program, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, BC.
Goldman
Ran D
RD
D001955:British Columbia / Q000453:epidemiology; D002648:Child; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D006801:Humans; D009765:Obesity / Q000178:diet therapy* / Q000453:epidemiology; D015995:Prevalence; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015431:Weight Loss