Information For Families
The Brenner FIT Program is a family-centered, evidence-based approach to weight management. This means we use the latest in research-proven methods to improve the weight and health of your child and family. We include the whole family in the treatment process, and focus on changing habits and behaviors, rather than restrictive diets and harsh exercises.
Who Qualifies For Brenner Fit?
Brenner FIT is for children who have developed a health problem related to their weight. Some of the most common problems we see are:
- High blood pressure
- Pre-diabetes, diabetes, or insulin resistance (high blood insulin levels)
- High cholesterol or high triglycerides (at risk for later heart disease)
- Sleep apnea
- Muscle or bone problems (slipped capital femoral epiphysis, Blount’s disease)
- Increased pressure in the brain (Pseudotumor Cerebri)
Menstrual and hormone problems (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome- PCOS)
- Fatty liver disease (Steatohepatitis or NASH)
If you feel that Brenner FIT may be the right program for you and your family, talk with your child’s doctor about your options.
To Get Started
It is important to talk to your child’s doctor AND with your family about participating in the Brenner FIT Program first. Brenner FIT is intensive and requires a substantial commitment of your time and effort, so make sure that your whole family is “on-board” with starting the program.
Your doctor will screen for weight and health problems in your child, and will refer to Brenner FIT if your child meets the criteria.
What To Expect In Brenner Fit
Once your child is accepted to Brenner FIT, we will contact your family to begin the process of change. Intervention begins even before your first clinic visit. The process begins by completing intake paperwork. Once we receive that, your first visit will be scheduled.
The Brenner FIT program lasts about one year. During this time you will visit the clinic 12-16 times. This high level of intervention may cause you and your family to miss some school and/or work. At times this cannot be avoided, but we will make every attempt to work with your schedule and minimize conflicts.