Practical Parenting: A New Era in Treating Childhood Obesity with Dr. Joseph Heinemann

GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have dominated health headlines in recent years. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, these medications have also become widely used for weight loss. But what should parents know about their use for children? 

In this episode of Practical Parenting, Dr. Joseph Heinemann, a pediatric endocrinologist at the Herman and Walter Samuelson Children's Hospital at Sinai, joined us to discuss GLP-1 medications, lifestyle changes, and the importance of approaching children's weight and health thoughtfully. 

GLP-1 medications copy a hormone naturally produced in the intestine that helps reduce hunger after eating and slows the stomach. Research does support the use of these medications for adolescents, including a study showing significant BMI reductions over approximately 50 to 60 weeks of treatment. In 2023, the American Academy of Pediatrics updated its guidelines to recommend weight-loss medications for children 12 and older with obesity, but they are intended for the long term and therefore require thoughtful intervention, not to be used as a quick solution. 

Dr. Theresa Nguyen, Chair of Pediatrics at GBMC and co-host of the podcast, said the importance of lifestyle modifications, including movement and nutrition. Dr. Heinemann cautioned against suggesting children who need medication have failed but agreed behavioral changes matter and are his starting point when working with families. 

Dr. Heinemann starts with four basic recommendations: consider what foods and drinks come into the house, avoid screens during meals, build a daily movement habit, and use smaller plates to encourage awareness of fullness. 

When it comes to movement, he encourages families to start small. 

"All you need to do is five minutes, but you need to do it every day," he said. The goal is not the immediate effect of exercise but rather developing a habit that continues over time. 

Another important consideration is how families discuss weight with children. 

Dr. Heinemann said he often focuses on health concerns, such as prediabetes and insulin resistance, rather than making weight the center of every conversation. Dr. Nguyen also added that the words pediatricians and parents use matter, particularly when adolescents may already feel uncomfortable discussing their bodies.

 Instead of repeatedly reminding children about their weight or habits, Dr. Heinemann suggested intentional, scheduled conversations. Dr. Nguyen agreed, emphasizing parents should approach their child's health as a team effort rather than placing all the responsibility on the child. 

Ultimately, the decision to pursue weight loss medications for children is not a closed door, but requires individualized medical decisions, sustainable habits, and conversations that support children's long-term health without making weight the focus of every interaction.

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