e. n. e. r. g. y. (eating nutritiously, exercising regularly & growing “y”-isely ™) is a pediatric weight management program inaugurated in October 2005 by QueensCare Family Clinics (QFC). The clinic-based program is a family centered model that’s interactive, upbeat, and fun for everyone. Dr. Jason Lue provides oversight and direction as e. n. e. r. g. y. ’s Program Director and physician champion. A team of highly-trained community health workers provide a family-centered, culturally-sensitive, and age-appropriate approach to the prevention of childhood obesity in 0 to 17 year olds. e. n. e. r. g. y . supports and educates not only the target child, but also the whole family.

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The e. n. e. r. g. y. program utilizes culturally-sensitive, age-appropriate, evidence-based primary prevention methodologies that are customized to meet patient/family needs. Components of the e. n. e. r. g. y. program include identification and assessment, nutrition education, physical activity, and behavior modification strategies that empower families with the knowledge and confidence to strive for a healthier lifestyle. Community health workers provide weekly individualized case management and offer guided support to assist families with interventions that increase healthy eating and physical activity habits, as well as provide encouragement and realistic suggestions on ways the family can strengthen their support for their child’s healthy weight. Self management interventions are practical, reality-based, and enable families as the catalyst for change in their community.

The didactic curriculum given through eight, two hour weekly sessions, is highly interactive, providing valuable hands on instruction. It requires that the children and their guardians / caretakers attend each session together. Every session incorporates a thirty minute regimen of isometric or dance exercises and elicits the active participation of parent and child to the best of their abilities.

Although pediatric obesity is at epidemic proportions in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) indicates that childhood obesity rates have stabilized over the last few years at around 32% for American children and teens (Time, 6/23/08). Childhood obesity statistics in Los Angeles County and throughout the United States have remained constant mainly because of the proliferation of educational programs like e. n. e. r. g. y. , which stress the importance of practicing a nutritious diet and daily physical activity. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, 23% of Los Angeles County school children are obese. The United Teachers Los Angeles 2007 Fact Sheet indicates that 36.6% of fifth, seventh, and ninth graders in the Los Angeles Unified School District are above the national obesity average. It is crucial to implement a preventative approach towards childhood obesity. Disseminating nutrition education and anticipatory guidance during early childhood can prevent the development of childhood obesity. A child who has proper nutrition and participates in daily physical activity will influence his or her family, extended family, friends, neighbors, and eventually others in the community.

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