RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Should weight-loss supplements be used for pediatric obesity?
JF Canadian Family Physician
JO Can Fam Physician
FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada
SP 257
OP 259
VO 55
IS 3
A1 Alex L. Rogovik
A1 Ran D. Goldman
YR 2009
UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/55/3/257.abstract
AB QUESTION 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? ANSWER 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.