Support Groups

 Childhood Weight Management Program available at Solaris through the Diabetes Center of New Jersey

To address the obesity epidemic in our community especially among adolescents, Solaris Health System formed a Pediatric Weight Management Task Force that has initiated various grass roots level efforts. Studies indicate that about 80 percent of obese teens become obese adults. Obesity is associated with major health consequences.

 Solaris now offers individual nutritional counseling and Garden State Fit Families, a 5 session group program through the Diabetes Center of New Jersey on an ongoing basis. As these are family-based programs, parents are included in this initiative and are encouraged to take an active role in managing their own and their children’s weight for optimal health.

 Our weight management program encourages a wide range of behavioral changes and recommends a well balanced low-calorie diet that is low in fat and refined carbohydrates, as well as 30- 60 minutes of daily aerobic exercise. Moreover, our Fitness Center offers guidance to group teen fitness program participants. To ensure sustained weight loss, we also offer follow-up support group services.

 The Pediatric Weight Management Task Force conducts Healthy Life Style seminars for teenagers in collaboration with the Camp Kiddie Keep Well to promote proactive life style changes.

 Most major health insurances cover the cost of the pediatric weight management program for overweight or obese children with health risks. For additional information, please contact Shaija George at 732.321.7727, sgeorge@solarishs.org or Tracy Egan at tegan@solarishs.org.

To register, contact the Diabetes Center of New Jersey at 732-650-9207.