Pediatric Obesity and Teledietetics Practice: A Case for Melding Theory and Practice for Enhanced Outcomes

Abstract

To elevate the importance of a melded theory and practice approach to teledietetics practice for obesity treatment and prevention. Although published work overwhelmingly reports the benefits of telehealth practice for pediatric obesity treatment and prevention, a paucity of data exists on what works, and how it works. We set out to determine the ‘what’ and ‘why’ of pediatric nutrition teledietetics practice via a systematic literature review, environmental scan and case study exploration of a provincial teledietetics practice model (HealthLinkBC, Burnaby, BC, Canada). A recent literature review of telehealth and pediatric obesity yielded minimal data. A further review of the grey and academic literature, and observation of teledietetics practice at HealthLinkBC suggests, as is with conventional practice settings, the following elements be incorporated in this practice model: family interventions; mental health; screen time; growth monitoring; energy balance; fruit and vegetable intake, division of responsibility; readiness to change; goal setting; and innovations throughout, particularly for follow-up care. Vast opportunities exist in both telehealth and the more conventional health care delivery models to optimize pediatric obesity prevention and treatment outcomes. One such opportunity involves looking at ways to diminish the far-too-common theory and practice divide in health care and delivery thereof. We summarize potential strategies for enhancing evidence-driven teledietetics practice models and approaches to the nutritional management of pediatric obesity. Combined findings and practice-based examples are presented, many of which may be transferable to other health care settings.