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Testing the effect of summer camp on excess summer weight gain in youth from low-income households: a randomized controlled trial | BMC Public Health

Study design

This randomized controlled trial was carried out in two low-income communities in the Northeast during summers 2017 and 2018. Children were randomized in a 1:1 fashion to CAMP or SAU using a randomization schedule generated by the study co-PI using Proc Plan in SAS 9.4 (2014; SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC). Sibling pairs were randomized as a unit. Summer day camp was provided by the Boys and Girls Club in each community, and all camp fees were covered by the research study. This study was funded by the Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute at Brown University, adheres to CONSORT guidelines for a randomized controlled trial and was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Rhode Island Hospital.

Participants

Participants, ages 6–12 years, were recruited through the local housing authority, the public school district and via community events. Flyers inviting families to participate were mailed to housing authority residents and sent home via backpacks. Interested families were invited to attend an enrollment visit. To enroll, children had to 1) qualify for free or reduced-price meals at school, 2) speak English (for purposes of camp participation), and 3) agree, along with their parent(s), to randomization. Participants were excluded if they had a medical condition that interfered with participation in physical activity or if they were otherwise enrolled in summer programming (camp, summer school, etc.) for more than 1 week. Parental informed consent was obtained for all children enrolled in the study. Child assent was obtained from those > 8 years. Parents / guardians received an honorarium at baseline and end of summer for completing assessments.

Camp

Children randomized to CAMP were enrolled in 7- (2017) or 8-weeks (2018) of day camp offered by local Boys and Girls Clubs (BGC) in each community. In 2017, only 7 weeks of camp were offered as the school year ran longer due to snow day make-ups. BGC camps in both communities were offered daily from 8:30 AM to 4 PM. The BGC provided daily transportation from each housing community to camp. Children were grouped by age (6–8 years, and 9–12 years) and assigned to a counselor. Each day, counselors led campers through activities including sports, games, obstacle courses, swimming and boating, and arts and crafts in 45–60 min blocks. Free breakfast and lunch meals were provided to campers daily via the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) [30]. Per federal guidelines, SFSP meals must include 8 oz. of milk, ¾ cup of fruit / vegetable, 1 serving of grains / breads, and 1 serving of lean protein or equivalent [31].

Summer as usual

Participants randomized to SAU were asked to experience summer vacation as otherwise planned by their parent/guardian. As part of the consent process, they confirmed that they were not enrolled nor planned to enroll in a summer day camp or other daily structured summer programming (i.e. summer school or day care) for more than 1 week over the summer.

Assessment schedule & outcome measures

All participants completed study assessments with trained research staff, blind to randomization, at the end of the school year (baseline), during weeks four and five of the 8-week summer (midsummer), and during the last week of summer (end of summer). At baseline, each child was weighed and measured, and a parent / guardian completed a sociodemographic questionnaire, which included questions on participant age, sex, race/ethnicity, and maternal education. In summer 2018, parent / guardian also completed a caregiver questionnaire.. At baseline and midsummer, participants completed three 24-h diet recalls and wore an ActiGraph for 24-h per day for 1 week. Finally, at end of summer, the child was weighed and measured a second time. After completing the baseline assessment, participants received a sealed envelope from the study coordinator, which disclosed their randomization.

Change in BMIz

Height and weight were measured in triplicate at baseline and end of summer. Child weight was measured, without shoes, to the nearest 0.1 kg using a calibrated digital scale (Tanita BWB 800; Tanita Corporation of America, Inc., Arlington Heights, IL). Height was measured to the nearest millimeter using a portable stadiometer (Model 214, Seca North America, Chino, CA). BMI-for-age percentile and BMI-for-age z-scores (BMIz) were calculated using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) standards [32]. Weight categories were defined according to CDC cut points for age and sex [33]. Change in BMIz from the school year (baseline) to end of the summer was used as a proxy for excess summer weight gain.

Dietary intake

Diet was assessed at baseline and midsummer via three, non-consecutive 24-h diet recalls (2 weekdays, 1 weekend day). Registered dietitians or graduate level nutrition students collected the recalls over the phone using Nutrition Data Systems for Research (NDSR; Nutrition Coordinating Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN). NDSR uses a variation of the USDA’s validated Automated Multiple Pass Method to collect detailed information on each food and beverage consumed at each eating occasion over the previous day [34]. Participants 9 years and older completed the recalls with parent / caregiver input as needed, while proxy-assisted interviews were conducted for participants ages 6–8 years. More specifically, in a proxy-assisted interview, the parent / caregiver and child complete the recall together so that the child can assist in reporting intake information [35]. NDSR output was used to calculate average reported energy intake and Healthy Eating Index, 2015 (HEI-2015) total scores for each participant at baseline and midsummer. The HEI-2015 is a density-based measure of diet quality that assesses adherence to the Dietary Guidelines 2015–2020 [36, 37].

Physical activity & sedentary behavior

Percent time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) or in sedentary behaviors were measured for 24-h per day for 1 week at baseline and midsummer using a wrist-worn accelerometer (wGT3X-BT, ActiGraph LLC, Pensacola FL). Participants wore the ActiGraph on their non-dominant wrist for 24-h to improve adherence [38]. Using ActiLife software, participant actigraphy data were considered valid and included in the analyses if daily wear time was > 8 h on a minimum of four weekdays [39]. Given our interest in how attending camp or having unstructured days during the week affects changes in MVPA, we only assessed activity behaviors on weekdays. The Chandler et al vector magnitude regression cut-points for wrist-worn accelerometry, which apply 60 s epochs, were applied to define percent time in MVPA and sedentary behaviors [40].

Participation

Each week throughout the summer, primary caregivers completed a participation survey via text message or phone, which captured data on their child’s daily participation in the BGC camp or other structured summer programming (summer school, other summer camps, or the SFSP). Daily camp attendance data were also collected from the BGC camps at the end of each summer.

Caregiver status

In 2018 only, parent / guardian completed a questionnaire at baseline indicating their child’s primary caregiver and his/her employment status (unemployed, employed part-time, employed full-time).

Data analyses

All statistical analyses were conducted using SAS 9.4, at the two-tailed 0.05 level of significance. General descriptive statistics were generated for demographics and anthropometrics at baseline. Group differences were assessed using student’s t-tests or Chi-square tests as appropriate. To address our primary aim to assess the effectiveness of randomizing children to attend summer day camp or SAU, we evaluated process measures of intervention dose and assessment completion using descriptive statistics. This trial was not powered a priori to test for intervention effects on BMIz and weight-related behaviors; however, to inform preliminary effectiveness of attending summer day camp, we examined group differences in BMIz (excess summer weight gain), minutes of MVPA, percent time spent sedentary and diet (total energy intake and diet quality). Separate linear mixed models with maximum likelihood estimation, to account for the correlation among siblings randomized as pairs, were used to estimate group differences in dependent variables including change in BMIz, minutes of MVPA, percent time spent sedentary, and diet measures. The primary independent variable was random group assignment, and each model accounted for clustering by family and controlled for baseline values, year of participation, age and race/ethnicity. Linear mixed models used to analyze longitudinal change in these outcomes required follow-up measures, such that only those participants with complete data are included these secondary analyses. Separately, we also tested for effect modification by baseline level of overweight / obesity and year (2017 vs. 2018) to determine if either moderated the effect of group assignment on excess summer weight gain. We did so by testing the significance of an interaction term.

Weight Loss Camps | Summer Camps for Fitness

If your child is overweight, weight loss camps are equipped to deal with this issue proactively and with sensitivity. Many children have benefited from the holistic approach taken to fitness and weight loss espoused by a summer camp focusing on those exact issues. Engage your child with one of these camps for only one summer, and the benefits may last a lifetime. 

Weight loss camp can teach children the essentials of fitness, weight management and healthy eating habits in an environment that is conducive to learning and will not make them feel judged. In an environment of peers facing similar problems with weight, your child will feel accepted, open to sharing with others and encouraged to face challenges from his or her new friends.

You can use our site to find fitness-oriented camps across the country. Click on your city below and find weight loss camps near you.

Search ALL WEIGHT LOSS CAMPS   

A variety of ways to participate

After school weight loss classes and programs can give you ongoing support or offer activities that make fitness fun.  

Weight loss day camps dominate the listings and city links above. 

Overnight weight loss camps offer a weeklong immersion that facilitates deep friendships and creates memories you’ll keep forever. 

Out of consideration for some kids’ insecurities, there are boys-only summer camps and girls-only summer camps in this category.

Fitness boot camps for kids maximize intensity. It may sound pejorative to some, but there are those in the industry who cheerfully refer to these as fat camps. Chelsea Kronegold has “had the privilege of attending as a camper, counselor, and group leader [and says] Yes, you heard me, Fat camp! …. Given that everyone is at camp for the same reason, sharing similar goals and motivations, [this] is a place where we encourage and empower one another to be the best we can be.” 

Related camp options

Use our site to find many different summer camps offering a variety of outdoor activities that will get you active and outside. By nature, any summer camp should help your child lose weight, though not all are well-suited for a child with an acute weight problem. Some camps that make casual fitness fun are as follows:

Horseback riding camp is one way to find pleasure out-of-doors and engage in many activities not necessarily fitness-focused. 

Kids’ golf camp is another low-impact activity that combines fun outdoors with a lot of walking and other incidental exercise. 

Baseball camp is another way to engage in less strenuous exercise while staying active. 

Kids’ yoga is another ideal way to ease into a more active lifestyle while also mindfully managing your physical activity.

Traditional camps offer a broad slate of activities that shows them fun outdoors, and the joy they can gain in working up a sweat through activities as various as ziplining, swimming, etc. 

As an aside, some other low impact activities that let kids ease into exercise include cycling and dance.  

Negative attitudes toward these camps stem largely from attitudes  south of the border. A Canadian camp will be run with heightened sensitivity, running a curriculum is often remarkably intelligent, with an orientation toward wholeness and wellness. 

Advantages of this kind of camp 

• An authority that is not a teacher or parent who has business speaking to kids. 
• Empowerment
• Holistic approach to fitness

Read more from around the web

“What I learned from summers at fat camp.” Chelsea Kronengold.  Jan 19, 2016. teenvogue.com.

Common Concerns About Weight-Loss Camp

Necessity & self-image

Common Concerns About Weight-Loss Camp

by Maya Cohen

Childhood obesity is a serious issue, because too many pounds can cause major health problems in children and adolescents. If your child is overweight, a weight-loss camp may help him slim down and develop healthier habits. We address some common concerns about sending children to weight-loss camp, to help you can make an informed and healthy decision for your child.

1. How do I know if my child needs to lose weight?

Obesity is not in the eye of the beholder; it’s not up to you to decide if your child needs to lose weight. Weight problems should be identified by a doctor or other medical professional, using charts and graphs that determine an appropriate weight for a child based on his age, height, and build. If you have concerns about your child’s weight and are considering enrolling him in a weight-loss program, be sure to discuss your plan with his pediatrician. Make an appointment to have your child examined before making a decision.

2. Will sending my child to weight-loss camp negatively affect his self-image?

Studies show that weight-loss camps typically improve self-image and build confidence. However, you are right to be concerned about your child’s self-esteem, and you should tread carefully when approaching your child about his weight. First, do not use such terms as “obese,” “fat,” or “chubby. ” Emphasize that you are worried about your child’s health, not his appearance. Reiterate that he is beautiful, but explain to him the risks of an unhealthy lifestyle. Tell him that you are troubled by the prospect of diabetes, heart disease, and other potential medical ailments.

Some children may worry about being ridiculed by friends and schoolmates as “the kid going to fat camp.” Tell your child that weight-loss camps typically offer an array of fun summer activities, just like any other camp. Tell him that he’ll have many fun summer camp stories to share with friends – stories that don’t include any hint of attempts at weight loss.

Childhood obesity: The Singapore fat camps where children are shamed for being overweight

In the fight against obesity, government-sponsored fat camps that shame young children into losing weight seem like an extreme approach to public health.

But that is exactly what Singapore has done, and the results speak for themselves — with a markedly lower obesity rate compared with other western countries.

So, with obesity rates among children increasing in Australia and data showing at least one in four Australian children are classified as overweight, could this approach ever be adopted here?

Imagine it: A schooling system which measures a child’s weight and Body Mass Index (BMI), separating and placing anyone overweight into rigorous physical activity programs and fat camps specifically targeted to reduce their weight.

Kids need more exercise: study

Your child as young as seven years old could be fat shamed and openly asked to do more physical activity than their peers in school.

That is exactly how Singapore tackles obesity in its education system.

The Holistic Health Framework (HHF) is a government-mandated and regulated weight management program which works in conjunction with the “TAF Club” — an acronym for “Trim And Fit” or, for cynics, FAT spelled backwards — to actively reduce the country’s obesity rates.

Instead of spending time with their friends, anyone overweight is called out and told what to eat, as well as being placed on a strict exercise routine, with their progress monitored closely and re-evaluated every six months.

This system does not allow children or their families to choose if they would like to participate in the program, and parents are also told what they need to do to control their child’s weight.

Apart from this, overweight children are separated to do different exercises during physical education classes and are sometimes even made to stay in school after teaching hours to increase their physical activity.

One size doesn’t fit all, experts say

Experts in WA say the Singapore system could never be implemented here.

Parents need to take more responsibility for the health of their children, experts say.(iStockPhoto)

Edith Cowan University (ECU) lecturer and coordinator of health and physical education Donna Barwood said Singapore had a completely different education system and a government policy which would not work in Australia.

“It’s singling kids out who are obese,” she said.

“In a social justice perspective, I would never support that.”

Dr Barwood said the main issue facing Australia was the need for all schools to be consistent in implementing certain activities.

She also encouraged parents to get educated on their children’s health and wellbeing, rather than leaving it to schools to enforce regulations.

“The primary thing is for parents to step up to the plate and get involved. I don’t think it’s the school’s place to implement such rules,” she said.

The numbers don’t lie

Despite its controversial nature, the HHF and TAF programs have proven to be successful, with Singapore possessing one of the lowest obesity rates in the world.

Just 10 per cent of five-year-olds in Singapore are classified as overweight, compared with 25 per cent of Australian children.

Four ways to tackle obesity

Australia is being left behind when it comes to tackling the obesity epidemic, health leaders warn.

Read more

So, are fat camps the solution to this crisis impacting millions of Australians?

ECU nutritionist and professor of public health nutrition Amanda Devine is another sceptic.

Dr Devine — who has helped develop websites to implement educational projects in the public health sector — said nutrition education and appropriate physical activity in schools was critical to improve the health of our future generations.

“ECU provides RefreshED, an engaging and relevant online curriculum to provide teachers with professional development and resources to teach healthy eating from kindy to Year 10,” she said.

“The website also suggests ways to build a healthy food environment in schools by linking ideas about growing foods, starting kitchen gardens and creating healthy canteens.”

Beyond the school gate

But despite education and nutrition programs being placed in our local schools, statistics have shown a rise in childhood obesity over the years.

Early action is needed to prevent obesity in children, experts say.(Reuters: John Vizcaino )

Dr Barwood believes it is not up to schools to fix this problem as she feels they are only there to educate children.

“Schools aren’t there to fix the problem, they’re there to educate,” she said.

“I don’t believe it will be fixed through schools, this issue is bigger than that. Parents have to take more responsibility to help fix this issue.”

Weighing in on Weight Loss Camps

BY TONY SPARBER

As summer is fast approaching, you are probably beginning to think about how to keep your kids occupied. If your child is struggling with weight (whether it’s 10 pounds or 100 pounds), wants to get in shape, and increase their self-confidence, you may want to consider weight loss camp.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently reported that childhood obesity affects approximately 12. 5 million children and teens in the United States (17% of that population), and Georgia is one of four states where it affects more than 25% of our children. Weight loss camps attempt to revise this statistic and help end the childhood obesity epidemic that is destroying our youth.

How Being Overweight Affects Children

Not only are obese children more likely to develop serious life-threatening conditions later in life, such as heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, but they also suffer from social and emotional issues, such as ostracization from classmates, stigmatization, and low self-esteem. The psychological stress of being heavy can often be as harmful as the physical repercussions. Being overweight can lead to discrimination, depression, and bullying from classmates. If this sounds like your child, you should discuss with them the idea of attending a summer weight loss camp to have fun, get fit, and meet like-minded kids their own age.

How to Know If Your Child’s Ready for Camp

In most cases, children shouldn’t be forced into attending weight loss camp against their will, as their own motivating factors are essential to being successful in the long-term. They should be made to understand that it’s not about “punishment;” any reputable camp will motivate and encourage campers in non-judgmental and positive ways. Weight-loss camp should be an exciting adventure rather than a place of dread. It should be a place where your kids can have fun, meet new friends, and most of all, enjoy themselves.

It’s important to keep in mind that there are many different types of weight-loss camps, ranging from those operated on private camp facilities to those that are hosted on college university campuses (which sometimes house multiple summer camps concurrently). Also, certain weight-loss camps are more clinical and severe in nature, focusing primarily on numbers, whereas others offer a more mainstream camp environment that is more well-rounded. The most important factor, though, is a well rounded program that includes fun camp activities along with the weight loss process. In other words, is your child going to have a good time and come home feeling proud of themselves and their efforts?

Here are some important points to keep in mind when choosing a weight loss camp:

How is the facility structured and run? Are there separate facilities for boys and girls? A different swimming pool for each gender to ease discomfort?

Conduct interviews with several different camps to see how they compare.

Ask the director for references from former campers.

What activities does the camp offer? Pay attention to your child’s interests and personality (are they into sports, drama, singing, are they outgoing, etc.).

How many children are in your child’s age group, as different camps vary tremendously in size?

How many camps does the company run? In other words, is there a personal touch at the camp? Does the director/owner personally interact with the kids?

Does the camp have an ACA accreditation? An ACA accreditation ensures that the camp has regular, independent safety audits that go beyond regulations in most states. To be accredited, camps must first comply with up to 26 mandatory prerequisite health and safety standards and must demonstrate substantial compliance with up to forty additional standards in ten operational areas. ACA standards cover all aspects of camp operation, including: programming, personnel, health care, management practices, site/food service, and transportation.

What is the ratio of counselors to campers?

How much “downtime” are the kids given to socialize and unwind?

As a parent, it’s best to have a clear understanding of the education provided to your child, the levels of activity expected, and the goal setting techniques used to track progress. If you feel uncomfortable with any aspect of the camp or feel that it doesn’t match your child’s personality, keep searching. It is also important for you to understand the role your family will play when your child returns home. Parents are responsible for upholding the concepts kids learn and should set good examples upon their return home. #

Tony Sparber is the founder/owner of two ACA Accredited New Image Camps: Camp Pocono Trails, PA and Camp Vanguard, FL. For additional information call 1-800-365-0556 or visit newimagecamp.com.

Children’s weight-loss camps: psychological benefit or jeopardy?

Weight change

Table 1 shows that over the 28 day period campers lost 5.6 kg (s.e.=0.4), a significant decrease (t(56)=13.3, P<0.001), reducing the average BMI by 2.1 kg/m² (t(56)=14.1, P<0.001) and BMI standard deviation (s.d.) score by 0.28 (t(56)=11.40, P<0.001). In contrast, the weight, BMI and BMI s.d. score of the comparison group increased significantly (t(37)=4.86, P<0.001; t(37)=4.51, P<0.001; t(37)=4.14, P<0.001) over this period.

Table 1 Mean (s.e.) body weight and shape ratings at pre- and postcamp

There was no sex difference in reduction of BMI s. d. score over the camp, but weight loss was positively correlated with duration of camp stay (r(55)=0.63, P<0.001) and participants who stayed at the camp for 4–6 weeks reduced their BMI s.d. score more than those who stayed for less than 4 weeks (t(55)=4.53, P<0.001).

Body image

There was a highly significant main effect of group on body shape measures (F(2,90)=57.0, P<0.001). Univariate analysis showed that campers perceived themselves as significantly larger on the silhouette scales than comparisons (F(1,91)=83.9, P<0.001) and had greater body shape dissatisfaction (F(1,91)=109, P<0.001). There were no significant differences in the preferred body shape for each group (Table 1).

A significant main effect of time was found in body shape ratings (F(2,90)=9.30, P<0.001), where current body shape was rated as smaller at the end of camp (F(1,91)=17.0, P<0.001) and no change occurred in the preferred body shape. In addition, there was a main effect of time on body shape dissatisfaction that had reduced by the end of the camp (F(1,91)=13.6, P<0.001).

There was also a significant time by group interaction (F(2,90)=12.0, P<0.001). Campers rated their current body shape as thinner (F(1,91)=20.6, P<0.001) and their body shape dissatisfaction reduced more than that of the comparison group (F(1,91)=19.2, P<0.001). Body shape dissatisfaction decreased significantly more in campers than in the comparison group (t(93)=4.71, P<0.001). Furthermore, BMI s.d. score change and body dissatisfaction change were significantly correlated (r(93)=0.36, P<0.001), indicating that those losing the most weight benefited from the greatest reduction in dissatisfaction.

Self-esteem

Table 2 summarises the mean domain and global self-worth scores. MANOVA revealed a highly significant main effect of group, the self-esteem scores of campers being significantly lower than those of comparisons (F(6,86)=7. 86, P<0.001). Univariate analyses showed that campers had lower global self-worth (F(1,91)=26.2, P<0.001), scholastic competence (F(1,91)=5.88, P<0.05), athletic competence (F(1,91)=9.65, P<0.01), physical appearance (F(1,91)=43.3, P<0.001), and behavioural conduct (F(1,91)=7.48, P<0.01). There was no significant difference in perceived social acceptance.

Table 2 Mean (s.e.) perceived self-competence at pre- and postcamp

There was also a main effect of time (F(6,86)=2.33, P<0.05), with an increase in global self-worth (F(1,91)=7.00, P<0.01), athletic competence (F(1,91)=2.33, P<0.01), and behavioural conduct (F(1,91)=5.44, P<0.05). A group by time interaction showed that the self-esteem scores of campers increased significantly more than those of comparisons over the period of the camp (F(6,86)=2.76, P<0.05). Univariate tests revealed that these interactions were significant in global self-worth (F(1,91)=16. 4, P<0.001), athletic competence (F(1,91)=6.96, P<0.01), and physical appearance (F(1,91)=9.17, P<0.01). Table 2 shows that these interactions were the product of increases in the self-esteem scores of campers, and no change or small decreases in the comparison group.

Overall, there was a significant positive correlation between BMI s.d. score change and change in global self-worth (r(93)=0.39, P<0.001), physical appearance (r(93)=0.35, P<0.001), and athletic competence (r(93)=0.22, P<0.05). Restricting the analysis to campers, global self-worth was positively associated with both weight loss (r(55)=0.33, P<0.05) and BMI s.d. score reduction (r(55)=0.33, P<0.05). Increased global self-worth was also associated with longer stays at the camp (r(55)=0.39, P<0.01). Those who stayed for 4–6 weeks showed significantly larger increases in both global self-worth (t(55)=3. 08, P<0.01) and physical appearance esteem (t(55)=2.20, P<0.05).

There was no significant effect of gender on self-esteem. Nor was there an effect of group, time, or gender on participants’ importance ratings. There was, however, a main effect of group on the mean competence-importance discrepancy (F(1,85)=16.0, P<0.001), where a larger discrepancy score in campers (mean=−0.70, s.e.=0.09) indicated lower self-worth than among the comparison group (mean=−0.20, s.e.=0.09).

Salience of weight-related issues — ‘My worries’

To investigate areas of concern, worries were categorised into the following three groups: ‘Appearance’ (looks, figure, etc.), ‘Other’ (money, the future, family), and ‘Peer relationships’ (with same and opposite sex). Campers worried significantly more frequently and intensely about appearance than did comparisons (frequency F(6,88)=7.30, P<0.001; intensity F(6,87)=8.49, P<0.001). Univariate analysis of the frequency of appearance worries showed that campers worried significantly more about every issue within this category (smallest F(1,91)=6. 83, P<0.01; Table 3). Similar results were found in the intensity of appearance worries.

Table 3 Mean (s.e.) frequency of worries about appearance, peer relationships, and other issues

There was a main effect of time on the intensity of appearance worries (F(6,86)=2.86, P<0.05), with worries decreasing from pre- to postcamp. However, although appearance worries generally decreased in campers and increased in comparisons, there was no significant group by time interaction. There was a main effect of gender with females reporting a higher frequency and intensity of worry about their appearance (F(6,88)=3.75, P<0.01; F(6,86)=2.33, P<0.05).

MANOVA showed that campers worried significantly more often and more intensely about ‘Other’ issues than did comparisons (F(6,88)=3.74, P<0.01; F(6,88)=4.61, P<0.001). This was apparent in the areas of future (F(1,93)=4.25, P<0.05), family (F(1,93)=9. 48, P<0.01), parents (F(1,93)=9.38, P<0.01), and nuclear war (F(1,93)=8.04, P<0.01). Again, similar results were found in rated intensity. However, there were no other significant main effects or interactions on this measure. Nor were there any differences in worries about peer relationships.

Summer Camp: Curbing Childhood Obesity

With the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that nearly 1 in 5 children between the ages of 6 and 19 is obese, it has become imperative that we, as parents, make as much effort to set our children up for success in establishing proper food habits, just as we would in other areas of their lives.  Three primary causes consistently cited for childhood obesity are lack of physical activity, an unbalanced diet and overeating.  An often overlooked benefit to summer camp is the significant impact it has in curbing childhood obesity by promoting an active lifestyle and healthy eating practices.  In this multi-part series, we will examine the efforts being made by summer camps to battle poor diet and exercise.

Part I.  Physical Activity
Beyond traditional summer camp sports such as soccer, basketball, baseball, roller hockey and gymnastics, many camps are increasingly focusing on the development of extensive programs for such popular fitness activities as spin, running, weights, zumba, yoga and the martial arts.  The instant popularity of these programs suggests that children have a natural interest in exercise and will engage in it of their own accord in the absence of many of the daily distractions that promote a more lethargic lifestyle but are not readily available at summer camp, such as computers, video game systems and television.  The ability to participate in fitness programs as a form of fun also encourages campers to approach such activities with an open mind rather than as something forced on them and that is only done out of necessity.  

Some camps are also experimenting with nutrition programs that marry cooking activities with fitness. Such programs teach campers how to plan healthy meals and snacks and then prepare them.  Cooking programs are among the most popular at summer camp.  To merge them with nutrition is a clever way to demonstrate the importance of using discretion in choosing what we eat and consuming it in moderation.  In the past, the idea of “diet,” as in depriving oneself of necessary nutrients, has been cited as a contributing factor in the growth of eating disorders and yo-yo dieting.

For those who question the lasting effects of fitness and nutritional habits adapted at summer camp, statistics indicate that they won’t be going away anytime soon.  According to the American Camp Association, more than half of children who pursue a new interest at camp will continue pursuing that interest once they return home.

Up next, part II.  An Unbalanced Diet

Does 90,000 Weight Loss Camps Really Work? Scientific Evidence Says Yes!

You love your child, no matter how he looks. However, you also know that your child’s health can be beneficial if they lose weight. As childhood obesity rates rise, many parents of overweight children should consider one option – weight loss camp.

Today, in most weight loss camps, a child enrolls in school for at least four weeks, and often for eight weeks.It may seem like a long time, but the camp will take so long to instill healthy habits in your child. Weight loss camps are designed to be fun and help your child lose weight at the same time. Weight loss camps offer activities such as canoeing, sports and swimming.

Weight Loss Camps are designed not only to help your child lose weight for a few weeks, but also to help him maintain a healthy weight after leaving the camp.Most weight loss camps put a lot of emphasis on teaching children to maintain their weight after they return home.

Weight loss camps specialize in overcoming the reluctance of children. Many children resist going to weight loss camp, in part because other efforts have not been successful. The weight loss camps are used to this problem and the experienced staff are always on hand to help. Once a child sees an opportunity to meet new friends and take part in new activities at camp, his attitude will quickly change.

A number of studies show that weight loss camps effectively help children lose weight not only during their stay in the camp, but also for several months after. Researchers at Leeds Metropolitan University assessed the effect of the eight-week weight loss camp and reported their findings in the journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity. (Quote 1.)

The results of the study are encouraging. The researchers reported that the eight-week program, which was conducted in Massachusetts, helped 89 percent of children improve their body mass index (BMI) in one year.

More than 100 children have been evaluated. Note that the camp used for this study only moderately restricted the children’s diet and emphasized “exercise with play skills. ”

In a follow-up study, the same group of researchers from Leeds Metropolitan University found that weight loss camps appeared to improve children’s self-esteem, weight issues, body shape, weight and height preferences. Focusing on a child’s weight seems to help rather than harm the psychological well-being of children.(Quote 2.)

Although nothing can replace parental guidance, sometimes weight loss camp is suitable for many parents who want to help their children lose weight. A weight loss camp can help a child lose weight, make friends, and boost self-esteem.

1) Camps for underweight children: psychological benefits or dangers ?, International Journal of Obesity (2003) 27, 748-754.

2) Impact of children’s summer camp program on weight loss followed by a 10-month review, Journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity (2000.) 24 (11): 1445-1452].

School of Weight Control – Children’s Sanatorium “Polyany” of the Administrative Department of the President of the Russian Federation

A wellness course aimed at losing weight and teaching the child the principles of proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.

For more than 10 years, our specialists have been successfully using the specialized program “School of Weight Control” to effectively solve problems with childhood and adolescent obesity.Teaching children under the program is carried out as part of the course treatment in the Polyany sanatorium of our center. Under the close supervision of psychologists, endocrinologists, nutritionists and exercise therapy instructors, children are taught proper nutrition and the principles of a healthy lifestyle. A balanced diet, individual physical activity and a range of wellness procedures allow you to achieve amazing results.

Five Steps to Overweight Problems:

• Physical activity recovery
• Balanced diet
• Harmonization of the child’s emotional state
• Training in the basics of proper nutrition and food selection
• Formation of motivation to change eating behavior and self-control while following a diet

In case of concomitant pathology, the child will additionally undergo all necessary medical procedures.

The Weight Control Schools program includes:

1. Observations by qualified specialists: endocrinologist, nutritionist, rehabilitation therapist, exercise therapy instructor, psychologist, teachers and educators
2. Individual exercise program
   • gymnastics in the gymnastics hall
   • Exercise with children’s strength equipment
   • Nordic walking in the coniferous forest
   • Aqua aerobics in a special children’s pool
   • Play therapy
3. Effective health technologies that stimulate metabolic processes, improve muscle tone
   • Healing baths and showers
   • Hydromassage
   • Acupressure and linear massage
   • Acupuncture
   • Tsubo-therapy
4. Exciting interactive activities
   • “My diet”
   • “The Right Products”
   • “Be active”
5. Accompaniment by a professional psychologist
   • Individual lessons
   • Mini-group training
   • Classes in the neurosensory room
   • Sand therapy
6. Interesting leisure
   • Walks and games in the Miracle Park
   • Photo circle, astronomy circle
   • Drawing, singing, reading, performing arts
   • Concerts, discos
   • Meeting interesting people (artists, singers, military men, veterans)

90,000 The problem of childhood obesity in the US and China ”BigPicture.ru

Recently, the “obesity epidemic” is increasingly being talked about not only in America. In 2010, the proportion of overweight children aged 5-18 is projected to be around 38% in the European Union, in China around 20%, and in the Americas, one in two children will be obese.

1. According to official figures, the majority of the US population – 68% – is overweight. Among them, 34% are obese. Of particular concern to American doctors is the fact that 17% of children over two years old in the country are also obese.(Ian Berry / Magnum Photos) 2. The study also found that African Americans are more likely to be obese, followed by Hispanics and whites. (Susan Meiselas / Magnum Photos)

3. The problem of combating this disease in the United States has long gone to the state level. In the photo: the girl celebrates her 16th birthday. Ahead are cosmetics and lingerie stores. (Alessandra Sanguinetti / Magnum Photos)

4. China actively began to fight overweight.Starting to catch up with the United States in terms of the number of obese people, China quickly mobilized and began to open one fitness club after another. (Zumapress)

5. The latest fashion trend is weight loss camps. Pictured: More than 80 children from Shenyang went to a military camp to lose weight during their summer 209 holidays. (Zumapress) 6. The growing incomes and the “sedentary” (in front of computer monitors) lifestyle, which is especially widespread among teenagers, are accused of tightening the waists.(Zumapress) 7. In China, where the “one family, one child” policy has triggered what is known as “Little Emperor Syndrome” and created millions of spoiled and overfed children, the rise in childhood obesity is particularly alarming for healthcare professionals. (Zumapress) 8. A study late last year found that the number of obese children in China has increased 28-fold over the past 15 years. (Zumapress)

9. Among children under seven, almost one fifth are overweight and 7% are obese.Childhood obesity increases the risk of developing cancer in adulthood. In China, you can often find free ads from local healers: “Weight loss by 30-40 kg. Per month. Guarantee.” (Zumapress)

10. Statistics show that 43% of cancer cases can be prevented by getting used to eating right in childhood. (Zumapress) 11. Children are recommended to eat balanced food and exercise, which is why many parents decided to send their children to special weight loss camps. (Zumapress) 12.One such camp is located in Shenyang, Liaoning Province. (Zumapress) 13. In this camp there is no word “rest”, here experienced instructors – former military – give detailed instructions on shedding extra pounds. (Zumapress)

14. According to the most conservative estimates, every fourth person in Russia suffers from obesity. Moreover, in certain age “risk groups” these indicators are significantly higher. Studies have shown that this allows you to partially bring the child’s weight back to normal. (Zumapress)

15.According to the World Health Organization, by 2015 the total number of obese people in the world could rise to 700 million. (Zumapress) 16. There is official statistics: if suddenly, magically, this problem disappeared by itself, the life expectancy of people all over the world would increase by 5-10 years. For comparison, curing all the inhabitants of the planet from cancer would increase the average life expectancy by only a year. (Zumapress)

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The dark side of the extra kilogram

The photo is for illustrative purposes.

Chronic non-infectious epidemic. This is how doctors today assess the situation with childhood obesity.

According to the WHO, 155 million children in the world are overweight, 40 million are obese. Moreover, the problem is gradually affecting all the earlier age periods.

According to an innovative project providing for the development and implementation of a comprehensive technology for early diagnosis, correction and prevention of various clinical forms of overweight and obesity in children and adolescents, more than 1,000 Minsk preschoolers were examined.As shown by the results of screening studies, first carried out in the republic by employees of the 1st Department of Pediatric Diseases of the Belarusian State Medical University, the prevalence of overweight is 5.7%, obesity is 4.6%. In fact, we are talking about every 10th kindergartener. In this case, the peak of the manifestation of the problem falls on the age of 5-6 years.

– And although it is known that obesity, observed at an early age, subsequently persists only in every 4th adult, the result of those excess kilograms can be the development of many complicated diseases in adulthood, – explains the professor of the 1st Department of Pediatric Diseases of the Belarusian State Medical University, Chief freelance pediatric endocrinologist of the Ministry of Health Dr. med.Sciences Angelica Solntseva. “Therefore, we take the situation seriously and propose to use the complex diagnostic technologies developed by us, which allow us to identify a predisposition to obesity at an early stage. Our techniques are available, consistent with the current capabilities of domestic medicine. True, one must understand that this problem is not only a medical one. It is also social, family friendly, rooted in the food tradition, in the range of products offered by the industry. The program for the prevention of overweight in children should be a state program covering many areas of life …

Research by scientists of the Medical University was aimed at identifying early markers of overweight formation, isolating and studying candidate factors for the development of obesity, preparing and implementing a DNA typing protocol, which describes methods for determining the location of genes associated with the risk of overweight.Effective therapeutic and prophylactic measures are proposed. For example, a significant decrease in the levels of leptin, one of the important hormones produced in adipose tissue and regulating energy metabolism relative to anthropometric parameters, was found during a three-month course of treatment with a low-calorie diet and dosed controlled physical activity in girls with alimentary obesity. Analysis of the dynamics of the body mass index with the use of metformin hydrochloride in the treatment of children with complicated obesity revealed a downward trend in this indicator starting from the 4th week of taking the drug.

The fatness in childhood, which many parents are so moved by (I remember, in previous years, when the child returned from the pioneer camp refreshed, but thinner, it was perceived as a family tragedy), is far from harmless.

It has been established that early obesity is associated with metabolic processes, arterial hypertension, impaired biological response of body tissues to the action of insulin, pathology of carbohydrate metabolism up to the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, increased blood cholesterol levels, fatty liver disease and other consequences.

According to scientific studies, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in obese children reaches 20-50%, which is very dangerous and leads to early atherosclerotic vascular changes, creates the basis for the emergence and progression of severe diseases. The identified markers and triggers for the development of metabolic syndrome in children are recommended by the authors of the project to pediatricians and endocrinologists, who should form risk groups for the timely diagnosis of this condition and the implementation of therapeutic and prophylactic measures.

– Unfortunately, effective prevention and adequate therapy of obesity in children is a problem that is not easy to solve because of the low family motivation to reduce and long-term stabilization of the child’s body weight, says Angelica Solntseva. – The predominant type of upbringing of obese children is “conniving hyperprotection,” that is, upbringing as a “family idol” – adoration, immediate satisfaction of the child’s slightest whims, exaggeration of his merits.

Requirements, prohibitions and “sanctions” in such a family are negligible.This leads to the formation of an egoistic personality, endowed with an excessive thirst for recognition and receiving benefits, aimed at conflicts with others. In obese children, complex emotional changes are noted, which are manifested by somatic complaints, alienation, difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, the phenomenon of the so-called. compulsive overeating (eating food when there is no feeling of hunger, lack of control over food).

As a method of primary and secondary prevention of obesity, we recommend timely and adequate psychotherapeutic correction of eating behavior based on the study of the type of family education and emotional characteristics.Priority is given to population prevention of childhood obesity, which should be comprehensive, including the creation of a favorable environment, the development and implementation of supportive strategies in the economy, social policy and health care, monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of the strategy, and further scientific research.

The project results have already been introduced into the work of the Republican Children’s Endocrinology Center, regional endocrinology departments – in the form of a program for selecting patients with a high risk of obesity.

Developed and approved by the Ministry of Health, 2 instructions for use are used – “Revealing overweight and complex diagnostics of obesity in children” and “Prevention and correction of overweight and obesity in children”.

Dmitry Patyko
Photo: Anna Bergman
Medical Bulletin , 18 February 2016

Sanatorium named after Kalinina, Tambov region

The main methods of treatment in the sanatorium are water balneotherapy and physiotherapy, including magnetotherapy, ultrasound therapy, galvanization, laser therapy, electrotherapy, and physioprophylaxis is also used.

– magnetotherapy – improves blood circulation, normalizes blood pressure, has a general systemic healing effect;

– pressotherapy or lymphatic drainage improves blood circulation in various pathologies, reduces edema, is also used for body shaping;

– ultrasound therapy resolves scars and adhesions, improves metabolic processes in bones and cartilage;

– laser therapy has a powerful anti-inflammatory, resorption and analgesic effect.Promotes the activation of the body’s vital processes, while at the same time not damaging the body. When using a laser in medicine, the general condition and well-being improves, microcirculation and blood oxygen saturation increase. Effects from the use of laser therapy: increasing the effectiveness of the use of medicines, reducing the doses of prescribed drugs, reducing the rehabilitation period by 2-3 times, reducing the treatment time for a wide range of diseases;

– Electrosleep therapy normalizes the state of the central nervous system, improves sleep, improves mood and immunity;

– aerosol therapy (inhalation) restores the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, improves sputum discharge, kills pathogenic microflora, reduces shortness of breath;

– electrophoresis – a method of electrotherapy, which consists in the introduction of medicinal substances in the form of ions through intact skin.Galvanic current improves blood and lymph circulation, stimulates recovery processes;

– darsonvalization improves blood circulation, activates biochemical processes in and under the skin, enhances nutrition in tissues, supply them with oxygen;

– DDT therapy reduces inflammatory processes in tissues, affects their blood supply, normalizes trophic processes;

– CMT therapy – amplipulse therapy is intended for pain relief and electrical stimulation of weakened muscles;

– DENS – therapy (dynamic electroneurostimulation) used for cardiovascular, bronchopulmonary diseases, digestive and urinary organs, musculoskeletal system, ENT organs;

– high-frequency therapy (UHF) has an anti-inflammatory and resorption effect;

– UHF – exposure to electromagnetic radiation in the decimeter range, as well as: ultraton therapy, phonophoresis, detensor therapy, manual massage, oxygen and aromatherapy, mechanotherapy, ozone therapy, infrared sauna.

– dry carbonic baths – have a positive effect on the manifestations of atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries and cerebral vessels, improves sleep, increases endurance, improves memory, decreases or completely disappears irritability, headache, dizziness, lack of coordination. Under the influence of carbon dioxide baths, lipid metabolism increases, cholesterol levels decrease.

Balneotherapy is represented by a pool with mineral water, mineral, pearl, coniferous, iodine-bromine, turpentine baths.

Halotherapy is a spa treatment based on the use of simulated natural factors in a controlled respiratory environment of the microclimate of an artificial salt cave. After taking a course of halotherapy sessions, you will improve your general health, increase the body’s immunity to respiratory diseases, influenza, bronchial asthma and improve the state of your nervous system. It is especially important when carrying out complex spa treatment.

Mud therapy: mud from the Plyos Glubokiy deposit in the Yeisk district of the Krasnodar Territory and / or mud from the Kiziltash estuary.

Hydrotherapy: circular, ascending shower, Charcot, underwater massage shower, foot whirlpool baths, jacuzzi, 4-chamber bischofite baths, whirlpool baths.

Radon baths and radon oil applications.

90,000 Children’s Health Camp for 2015 – fun activities and nice value

Children are looking forward to the holidays – this is a blessed time when they can finally take a break from school and homework.Unfortunately, many modern children even spend their free time in front of a computer or TV. Pediatricians, as well as teachers and parents are sounding the alarm: due to a lack of physical activity, children’s health is rapidly deteriorating! As a result of a long stay in a sitting position, posture deteriorates, scoliosis appears. The gaze constantly directed at the screen of the gadget is the main reason why the child’s vision deteriorates. Finally, the habit of eating sweets and junk food without leaving the computer provokes obesity, which can be followed by all kinds of cardiovascular diseases and abnormalities in the work of the digestive tract.How to fix the situation and make the child’s rest not only pleasant, but also useful?

Buy vouchers for children to the best children’s camps!

The cost of the recreation camp for children “Vaganta” includes not only accommodation in comfortable rooms for 3 or 4 guests, and hearty five meals a day, but also all kinds of activities for children. They will not only help children from 6 to 16 years old to adapt to the camp and have fun here, but they will also have a positive effect on health and help to increase immunity.

Recreation camp for Vaganta children, fun activities and good company. The cost and prices of the health camp can be found by phone: (812) 994-07-96

First of all, vagants – members of a special community, in which only the smartest and most talented guys can be, that is, all our guests – observe the daily routine. They get up at the same time, do their exercises, and also go to the dining room during specially designated hours. The first, second and third courses, as well as desserts, are lovingly prepared by our chefs using only the most delicious and healthy products.The absence of fast food and other unhealthy food on the menu will certainly have a positive effect on the state of the child’s gastrointestinal tract!

Movement – life, or activities of the Vaganty health camp

In order for your child not only to be interesting, but also to spend time actively, we will organize:

• outdoor group games;

90,039 visits to the pool;

90,039 excursions and tourist trips;

• discos;
• all kinds of master classes, etc.d.

Favorable prices for our children’s camp in the Leningrad region fully justify themselves! According to the reviews of the parents of those children who have already visited us, the children after the shift spent in Vaganty catch colds less often and move more. A lot of children find friends in the camp, communication with whom continues even after the end of the joint vacation. Someone, not without the help of our teachers, discovers new talents and continues to develop them.

90,000 Children’s sports camp – solving the problem of obesity in adolescents

In recent years, the problem of obesity has become almost international.In many countries, special programs have been introduced to combat obesity, especially among adolescents. One way to deal with the problem is children’s sports camp (or fitness camp, as they are more commonly called). These camps fully embody the concept of “more movement, less food”, and their success is quite high and has already been noted in many countries.

Walks, games, physical exercises, sports – this is what is offered to children in such a camp. At the same time, the menu is not made up of sweets that are harmful to health, but healthy food, an abundance of vegetables and fruits.

Since the main cause of obesity is lack of physical activity, the children’s sports camp is exactly the place where children can easily give up junk food and fast food and enjoy active recreation.

If you decide to organize such a camp, first of all it is necessary to take into account that obesity must be fought seriously, for success it is necessary to use complex programs. Otherwise, there will be no benefit from classes. It is very important to explain to children from the very beginning of their stay why they need to fight excess weight and take care of themselves.

Living conditions in such camps should be fairly Spartan. Sports, exercise and only the right food, limited in quantity. You can also use other methods of dealing with obesity, for example, modern technologies or, on the contrary, the methods of traditional medicine.

Acupuncture is an example of such methods. This method is quite tough – needles are placed in problem areas, which have a beneficial effect on the body.All methods used in the complex can achieve significant results. The time spent in the camp is 28 days, and during this time the children not only cope with the problems of obesity, lose weight, but also acquire many good habits, and their general health improves.