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Sjunnestrand M, Neuman N, Järvholm K, Ek A, Nordin K, Salas XR, Eli K, Nowicka P. "A balancing act": parents' longitudinal perspectives of weight-related discussions with their children following obesity treatment. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1695. [PMID: 38918803 PMCID: PMC11202376 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Weight-related discussions during childhood may have long-lasting effects on children's body image and well-being. However, little is known about how parents frame these discussions with children who have undergone treatment for obesity. Our study aimed to explore how parents perceive weight-related discussions, several years after their children started obesity treatment. This qualitative study is part of the 4-year follow-up of the More and Less study, a randomized controlled trial examining the effectiveness of a parental support program as part of obesity treatment for preschool-aged children in Stockholm, Sweden. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 33 parents (79% mothers, 48% with a university degree, 47% with foreign background) of 33 children (mean age 9.3 years (SD 0.7), 46% girls), transcribed and analyzed using realist informed thematic analysis. Three main themes, encompassing three subthemes were developed. Under the first theme, Parental attitudes and concerns, parents emphasized the importance of discussing weight and health behaviors with their children, yet found it challenging due to uncertainties about how to approach it safely and sensitively. A few parents found the conversation manageable, citing their own experiences of having overweight or their style of communication with the child as facilitating the conversation. Under the second theme, The significance of time and context, parents said they engaged in weight-related conversations with their children more frequently as the children matured, driven by their growing self-awareness. Parents also expressed how contextual factors, such as gender and the presence of others, shaped conversations. Parents perceived boys as more resilient, thus exposing them to more negative weight talk. The third theme, Navigating weight stigma, revealed how parents employed strategies such as nurturing their children's self-confidence, downplaying the significance of appearance and emphasizing health when discussing weight to shield their children from weight stigma. Taken together, we found that many parents need support to navigate weight-related discussions. Addressing weight stigma is part of children's obesity management process, as children may be bullied, teased, or experience discrimination in different social settings. More research is needed to explore how young children undergoing obesity treatment experience weight stigma and to understand gendered differences in these experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- My Sjunnestrand
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Nicklas Neuman
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Anna Ek
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Nordin
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ximena Ramos Salas
- European Association for the Study of Obesity, United Kingdom and Bias 180, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Karin Eli
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Ek A, Brissman M, Nordin K, Eli K, Nowicka P. A long-term follow-up of treatment for young children with obesity: a randomized controlled trial. Int J Obes (Lond) 2023; 47:1152-1160. [PMID: 37723272 PMCID: PMC10599998 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-023-01373-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early childhood obesity interventions supporting parents have the largest effects on child weight status. However, long-term follow-ups are lacking. OBJECTIVE To examine weight status 48 months after obesity treatment initiation for 4- to 6-year-olds. METHODS 177 families were recruited to the More and Less study, a 12-month randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in Sweden (2012-2017); 6 children were excluded due to medical diagnoses. Thus, 171 families (non-Swedish origin 59%, university degree 40%) were eligible for this 48-month follow-up with modified intention-to-treat (n = 114 had 48-month data, n = 34 dropped out, n = 23 lost to follow-up). The RCT compared 3 treatment approaches: a 10-week parent support program (1.5 h/w) with follow-up booster sessions (PGB) or without (PGNB), and standard outpatient treatment (ST). Treatment effects on primary outcome (BMI-SDS) and secondary outcomes (BMI, %IOTF25 i.e., the distance, in percent, above the cut-off for overweight) were assessed. Clinically significant reduction of BMI-SDS (≥0.5) was assessed with risk ratio. Sociodemographic factors and attendance were examined by three-way interactions. RESULTS After 48 months (mean 50 months, range 38-67 months) mean (95% CI) BMI-SDS was reduced in all groups: PGB -0.45 (-0.18 to -0.73, p < 0.001), PGNB -0.34 (-0.13 to -0.55, p < 0.001), ST -0.25 (-0.10 to -0.40, p < 0.001), no significant difference between groups. A clinically significant reduction of BMI-SDS ≥ 0.5 was obtained in 53.7% of PGB which was twice as likely compared to ST, 33.0%, RR 2.03 (1.27 to 3.27, p = 0.003), with no difference to PGNB, 46.6% (p = 0.113). %IOTF25 was unchanged from baseline for PGB 4.50 (-1.64 to 10.63), and significantly lower compared to ST 11.92 (8.40 to 15.44) (p = 0.043). Sociodemographics or attendance had no effect. CONCLUSION The intensive parent-support early childhood obesity intervention led to better weight status outcomes over time, though BMI-SDS alone did not reflect this. Further research should investigate how to assess weight changes in growing children. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01792531 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ek
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Division of Pediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Markus Brissman
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Division of Pediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Allied Health Professionals Function, Occupational Therapy & Physiotherapy, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Nordin
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Division of Pediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Division of Pediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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Neuman N, Jörnvi A, Ek A, Nordin K, Eli K, Nowicka P. Children's experiences of meals after obesity treatment: a qualitative follow-up four years after a randomized controlled trial. BMC Pediatr 2022; 22:342. [PMID: 35701760 PMCID: PMC9199225 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-022-03387-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The practice of eating together, commensality, is rarely explored in the context of childhood obesity treatment. This is noteworthy given long-standing debates about the physical, psychosocial, and societal benefits of meals, especially family meals. Moreover, as children with obesity experience weight bias and stigma both within and outside the home, it is important to examine meals as a locus of social exchange around food and the body. Our study is based on the premises that eating together (i) matters and (ii) occurs in different environments with diverse social organization, where food-related interactions create varying arrangements of individuals, groups, their statuses, and their actions. Method The study explores children’s experiences of meals in different social contexts. Thirty-two children (age 8–10 years) living in Sweden were interviewed, 4 years after they entered an obesity intervention trial. Thematic analysis was applied to the data. Results We thematized three meal types, with each meal type having two subthemes: (i) “The family meal”, with “Shared routines, rituals, and rules” and “Individual solutions and choices”; (ii) “The school meal”, with “Rules and norms of the school” and “Strategies of the child”; and (iii) “The friend meal”, with “Handling food that was disliked” and “Enjoyment of food”. These three different meal types carried different experiences of and knowledge about how they were socially organized. Conclusions While the children spoke about the family and school meals as meaningful, the friend meal stood out as particularly positive. Contrary to our expectations, the children did not express experiences of weight bias or obesity stigma around meals, nor did they speak negatively about parental control of their food intake. Our findings, especially regarding the friend meal, have implications for further research into commensality and social influences on eating among children with obesity, from early childhood into adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicklas Neuman
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Box 560, Husargatan 3, 751 22, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Anna Jörnvi
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Box 560, Husargatan 3, 751 22, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Ek
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Pediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 141 57, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Karin Nordin
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Pediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 141 57, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Box 560, Husargatan 3, 751 22, Uppsala, Sweden.,School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Box 560, Husargatan 3, 751 22, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Division of Pediatrics, Karolinska Institutet, 141 57, Huddinge, Sweden
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Nowicka P, Ek A, Grafström E, Johansson T, Nordin K, Neuman N, Reijs Richards H, Eli K. How Do Interpersonal Relationships Affect Children's Weight Management? A Qualitative Analysis of Parents' Long-Term Perceptions after Obesity Treatment. Child Obes 2022; 18:274-280. [PMID: 34767728 DOI: 10.1089/chi.2021.0156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Background: Childhood obesity interventions are particularly effective during the preschool age, but little is known about parents' long-term perceptions of weight management. This study explores how parents perceive the influence of interpersonal relationships on their children's eating and physical activity 4 years after participating in a randomized controlled trial. Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory frames this study, with the child's environment conceptualized as interlocking microsystems that affect weight management. Methods: Interviews were conducted with 33 parents (85% mothers, 48% with university degree) of 33 children [mean age 9.3 (standard deviation 0.7), 46% girls] from Stockholm, Sweden. Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on parents' perceptions of interpersonal relationships: family, relatives, other children, preschool/school staff, and health care practitioners. Results: Two main themes were developed: (1) Discouragement, with the subthemes Conflicting rules and Social comparison, and (2) Support and understanding, with the subthemes Teamwork and Shared responsibility and continuity of care. Parents perceived children's weight management as a continuous orchestration of different influences across social spheres. Years after obesity treatment, parents struggled to maintain the child's healthy routines outside the home. However, when siblings, grandparents, teachers, and friends' parents acted supportively, routines were easier to maintain. Conclusions: The findings suggest that each microsystem in a child's environment has important influence on weight management, such that, as children grow older, children's lifestyles cannot be managed by parents alone. To facilitate weight management, more people in the child's environment should be involved early in the treatment process, and continued professional support should be offered to parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emeli Grafström
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Tora Johansson
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Nordin
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicklas Neuman
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hannah Reijs Richards
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom.,School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Associations of preschoolers' dietary patterns with eating behaviors and parental feeding practices at a 12-month follow-up of obesity treatment. Appetite 2022; 168:105724. [PMID: 34606942 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Although dietary patterns are key to the management of childhood obesity, they are rarely assessed and thus poorly understood. This study examines preschoolers' dietary patterns and correlates 12 months after the start of obesity treatment (n = 99, mean age 5.2 years, 52% girls). A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ), Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ) and Lifestyle Behavior Checklist (LBC) were answered by parents to assess children's food intake, eating behaviors, parental feeding practices, and obesity-related behaviors, respectively. Principal component analysis identified dietary patterns based on FFQ data. Through multiple linear regressions we examined correlations between a healthy (HD) and a less healthy (LHD) dietary pattern and mean scores of the CEBQ, CFQ, LBC scales as well as BMI z-scores. The reported intake of items in the LHD decreased after treatment while no differences were found for the HD. Children's eating behaviors, in particular food fussiness, showed consistent associations with diet (b = -0.39, 95% CI -0.63, -0.14 for HD and b = 0.41, 95% CI 0.15, 0.66 for LHD). Feeding practices and obesity-related behaviours were weakly associated with the dietary patterns (HD and Monitoring: b = 0.36, 95% CI 0.09, 0.62; LHD and Screen time b = 0.08, 95% CI 0.01, 0.15). Among the measured variables, eating behaviors had the largest impact on children's dietary patterns. The LHD was associated with a higher BMI z-score but no associations were found between changes in LHD intake and changes in BMI z-scores. Our findings suggest that decreasing food fussiness in children with obesity is key to positive dietary changes. Assessment of children's eating behaviors can help tailor dietary advice and provide support for families of children with obesity.
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How do young children eat after an obesity intervention? Validation of the Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire using the Rasch Model in diverse samples from Australia and Sweden. Appetite 2021; 169:105822. [PMID: 34822921 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2021.105822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Child eating behaviours have consistently been linked to child weight status. Yet, changes in child eating behaviours during early obesity treatment are rarely evaluated. Psychometric evaluation of the Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) is common, but results are sample-dependent and included items may not capture the full range of the underlying traits. Rasch analysis can overcome these disadvantages. The aim of this paper was to assess child eating behaviours measured by the CEBQ after a 12-month obesity intervention applying the Rasch model for the validation of the CEBQ. The Rasch-based fit statistics were applied in children from two samples, Australian and Swedish (n = 1724). Changes in eating behaviours amongst children aged 4-6 years were examined in the More and Less RCT for obesity treatment (n = 177), which compared a parenting programme (with and without boosters) against standard treatment. Parents completed the CEBQ at four time points over 12-months. Linear mixed models were applied to estimate treatment effects on the CEBQ, refined according to Rasch, over time. We found that the validity of CEBQ was confirmed after removing 4 items (item fit statistics outside range 0.5-1.5). When the refined CEBQ was used in the assessment of the RCT, there were no differences in parental reports of changes in children's eating behaviours between the parenting programme and standard treatment (group-by-time interactions p > 0.05). However, in the total sample food approach behaviours decreased while fussy eating behaviours increased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the refined CEBQ proved to be a valid tool for examining parent-reported child eating behaviours. Early obesity treatment may decrease eating behaviours associated with higher child weight. Future research should address the associations between changes in child weight status and eating behaviours.
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Nowicka P, Keres J, Ek A, Nordin K, Sandvik P. Changing the Home Food Environment: Parents' Perspectives Four Years after Starting Obesity Treatment for Their Preschool Aged Child. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11293. [PMID: 34769810 PMCID: PMC8583698 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Changing the home food environment is key to childhood obesity treatment. However, new challenges arise as the child grows older. This study investigates parents' views on the longer-term management of the home food environment, 4 years after starting obesity treatment for their preschool-aged child. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 33 parents (85% mothers, 48% with a university degree) of 33 children (mean age 9.3 (SD 0.7), 46% girls) from Sweden. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis. Two main themes were developed. Making changes in the home food environment illustrates the types of changes families make over time in relation to child development. It consists of three subthemes: covert changes, overt changes and child-directed changes. The second theme, an ongoing negotiation, captures parents' experiences of managing the home food environment as a continuous process of balancing and recalibrating in relation to present challenges and concerns about the future. It includes three subthemes: concern and care, two steps forward one back and maintaining everyday balance. Managing the home food environment is a constant process affected by everyday life, parents' strategies and the child's development. Our findings can strengthen childhood obesity treatment and help prepare parents for challenges that lie ahead.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden;
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (A.E.); (K.N.)
| | - Johan Keres
- Dietitian Unit, Region Sörmland, 611 88 Nyköping, Sweden;
| | - Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (A.E.); (K.N.)
| | - Karin Nordin
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institute, 141 57 Huddinge, Sweden; (A.E.); (K.N.)
| | - Pernilla Sandvik
- Department of Food Studies Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, 752 37 Uppsala, Sweden;
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Somaraki M, Ek A, Eli K, Ljung S, Mildton V, Sandvik P, Nowicka P. Parenting and childhood obesity: Validation of a new questionnaire and evaluation of treatment effects during the preschool years. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257187. [PMID: 34555050 PMCID: PMC8459975 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Parenting is an integral component of obesity treatment in early childhood. However, the link between specific parenting practices and treatment effectiveness remains unclear. This paper introduces and validates a new parenting questionnaire and evaluates mothers’ and fathers’ parenting practices in relation to child weight status during a 12-month childhood obesity treatment trial. Methods First, a merged school/clinical sample (n = 558, 82% mothers) was used for the factorial and construct validation of the new parenting questionnaire. Second, changes in parenting were evaluated using clinical data from the More and Less Study, a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 174 children (mean age = 5 years, mean Body Mass Index Standard Deviation Score (BMI SDS) = 3.0) comparing a parent support program (with and without booster sessions) and standard treatment. Data were collected at four time points over 12 months. We used linear mixed models and mediation models to investigate associations between changes in parenting practices and treatment effects. Findings The validation of the questionnaire (9 items; responses on a 5-point Likert scale) revealed two dimensions of parenting (Cronbach’s alpha ≥0.7): setting limits to the child and regulating one’s own emotions when interacting with the child, both of which correlated with feeding practices and parental self-efficacy. We administered the questionnaire to the RCT participants. Fathers in standard treatment increased their emotional regulation compared to fathers in the parenting program (p = 0.03). Mothers increased their limit-setting regardless of treatment allocation (p = 0.01). No treatment effect was found on child weight status through changes in parenting practices. Conclusion Taken together, the findings demonstrate that the new questionnaire assessing parenting practices proved valid in a 12-month childhood obesity trial. During treatment, paternal and maternal parenting practices followed different trajectories, though they did not mediate treatment effects on child weight status. Future research should address the pathways whereby maternal and paternal parenting practices affect treatment outcomes, such as child eating behaviors and weight status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Somaraki
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | | | - Veronica Mildton
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Sandvik
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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Ek A, Vásquez‐Barquero MY, Sandvik P, Eli K, Somaraki M, Nowicka P. The role of parental depression during early childhood obesity treatment-Secondary findings from a randomized controlled trial. Pediatr Obes 2021; 16:e12754. [PMID: 33291185 PMCID: PMC8243967 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.12754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parental depression is a risk factor for childhood obesity. OBJECTIVES To examine the influence of parental depression on child weight status, eating behaviours, and parental feeding practices during childhood obesity treatment. METHODS Hundred and twenty eight children with obesity aged 4 to 6 years and their parents were randomized to a parent support program or to standard treatment. At baseline and after 12 months, children's heights and weights were measured. Parents reported levels of depression (Beck's Depression Inventory-II), feeding practices (Child Feeding Questionnaire), and children's eating behaviors (Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire). Independent and dependent paired sample t-tests and linear regressions were used to analyze data. RESULTS After obesity treatment, mothers reported lower levels of depression, whereas fathers did not. No associations were found between parental level of depression and child weight status, or between baseline level of parental depression and feeding practices. Associations were found between baseline parental depression and children's food responsiveness (β = .03; P = .01; 95% CI [0.01, 0.05]), emotional overeating (β = .02; P = .02; 95% CI [0.004, 0.04]), and desire to drink (β = .02; P = .03; 95% CI [0.002, 0.04]) (adjusted for background variables). CONCLUSIONS Parental depression did not influence child weight status or parental feeding practices but was associated with obesity-related child eating behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and TechnologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden
| | | | - Pernilla Sandvik
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and DieteticsUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical SchoolUniversity of WarwickCoventryUK,Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, Institute of Social and Cultural AnthropologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - Maria Somaraki
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and DieteticsUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and TechnologyKarolinska InstitutetStockholmSweden,Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and DieteticsUppsala UniversityUppsalaSweden
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Somaraki M, Eli K, Sorjonen K, Ek A, Sandvik P, Nowicka P. Changes in parental feeding practices and preschoolers’ food intake following a randomized controlled childhood obesity trial. Appetite 2020; 154:104746. [DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2020.104746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Thorén A, Janson A, Englund E, Silfverdal SA. Development, implementation and early results of a 12-week web-based intervention targeting 51 children age 5-13 years and their families. Obes Sci Pract 2020; 6:516-523. [PMID: 33082993 PMCID: PMC7556424 DOI: 10.1002/osp4.440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Internet-based treatments have proven effective for various health issues. There is a need to scale up interventions targeting children with obesity, also in less densely populated areas where the prevalence in many countries is higher than in urban areas. The aim of this study was to design and implement an internet-based program as an add-on to standard treatment for childhood obesity. Methods Web-Childhood Obesity Prevention (Web-COP) was a prospective feasibility study with a pre- post- design. The intervention consisted of four group-based education sessions at the clinic, physical activity on prescription, and a new 12-week internet-based program. Web-COP was offered to children with obesity (International Obesity Task Force Body Mass Index (IOTF-BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2) and their parents in two counties in Northern Sweden from August 2018 to June 2019. The primary outcome was change in BMI standard deviation score (BMI-SDS). Results The study included 55 children 5-13 years of age. The internet-based component was well received, and retention rate was 51/55 (92.7%). Data was analysed for 51 children. Mean BMI-SDS was 3.3 at start and decreased by 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 at two, four, and six months from baseline. Using a continuous algorithm, 42/51 (81%), children lowered their BMI-SDS and 33/51 (65%) lowered their BMI. Conclusion Adding group sessions and an internet-based program to standard care was feasible and two thirds of included children with obesity reduced their BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelie Thorén
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Pediatrics Umeå University Umeå Sweden.,Department of Pediatrics Sollefteå Hospital Sollefteå Sweden
| | - Annika Janson
- National Childhood Obesity Centre Karolinska University Hospital Stockholm Sweden.,Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Women's and Children's Health Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Erling Englund
- Department of Research and Development Västernorrland County Council Sundsvall Sweden
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Hagman E, Bohlin A, Klaesson S, Ejderhamn J, Danielsson P. Promising results from an implemented treatment model for paediatric obesity. Acta Paediatr 2020; 109:1656-1664. [PMID: 31899803 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the implementation of a plan of action for treatment of childhood obesity, and the effect after 2 years of treatment. METHODS Children aged 6-12.9 years who started obesity treatment between 2008 and 2015 in a paediatric clinic in Stockholm County were included. The treatment model included staff education and support and group activities for parents and children separately followed by individual sessions to a multidisciplinary team. The main outcome was change in body mass index standard deviation score (BMI SDS), in comparison to a matched control group. RESULTS In the intervention group, 1334 children (52% boys) with an average age of 9.3 years and BMI SDS of 2.7 and 3012 children in the control group were included. The intervention group decreased their BMI SDS more after two years compared with the control group, (-0.31 vs -0.23, P < .001). Younger age and higher BMI SDS at treatment initiation and families that completed the group sessions (all P < .001) had greater decreases in BMI SDS after 2 years. Sex did not affect the outcome. CONCLUSION Even though the treatment in the control group was effective, the implementation of the action plan yielded a better treatment response compared with the control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Hagman
- Division of Paediatrics Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
| | - Anna Bohlin
- Department of Women's and Children's Health Södertälje Hospital Sodertalje Sweden
| | - Sven Klaesson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health Södertälje Hospital Sodertalje Sweden
| | - Jan Ejderhamn
- Astrid Lindgren Children's HospitalKarolinska University Hospital Stockholm Sweden
| | - Pernilla Danielsson
- Division of Paediatrics Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology Karolinska Institutet Stockholm Sweden
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13
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Eiffener E, Eli K, Ek A, Sandvik P, Somaraki M, Kremers S, Sleddens E, Nowicka P. The influence of preschoolers' emotional and behavioural problems on obesity treatment outcomes: Secondary findings from a randomized controlled trial. Pediatr Obes 2019; 14:e12556. [PMID: 31290278 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.12556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have explored the influence of preschoolers' behavioural problems on obesity treatment. OBJECTIVES To assess emotional and behavioural problems before and after an obesity intervention and examine relationships between changes in child behaviour and changes in weight status. METHOD The study included 77 children (4-6 years old, 53% girls, mean body mass index [BMI] z-score of 3.0 [SD 0.6]) who participated in the More and Less Study, a randomized controlled trial. Families were randomized to a parenting program or to standard treatment. The children's heights and weights (BMI z-score, primary outcome) were measured at baseline and 12 months post baseline. Parents rated their children's behaviours (secondary outcome) on the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) for ages 1.5 to 5 years, a questionnaire that measures psychosocial health and functioning, encompassing emotional and behavioural problems. Changes in child behaviour during treatment were examined through paired samples t tests; the influence of child behaviour on treatment effects was examined through linear regressions. RESULTS Child emotional and behavioural problems significantly improved after obesity treatment. Lower scores were found for Emotional Reactivity, Sleep Problems, Affective Problems, Aggressive Behaviour, Externalizing Behaviours, Oppositional Defiant Problems, and Total Problems. Child behaviour significantly affected obesity treatment results: Attention Problems and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) at baseline contributed to increasing BMI z-scores, whereas Oppositional Defiant Problems, Externalizing Behaviours, and a higher number of behavioural problems predicted decreasing BMI z-scores. CONCLUSIONS Child behaviours at baseline influenced treatment results. Child emotional and behavioural problems improved post treatment. The results suggest that obesity treatment may help in reducing emotional distress among preschoolers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elodie Eiffener
- Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Karin Eli
- Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Anna Ek
- Unit of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Sandvik
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Somaraki
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Stef Kremers
- Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ester Sleddens
- Department of Health Promotion, NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Unit of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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14
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Ek A, Nordin K, Nyström CD, Sandvik P, Eli K, Nowicka P. Responding positively to "children who like to eat": Parents' experiences of skills-based treatment for childhood obesity. Appetite 2019; 145:104488. [PMID: 31626835 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2019.104488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to understand the challenges parents of preschoolers with obesity face. We assessed parents' experiences of a group treatment program focused on parenting skills; the treatment program was evaluated in a randomized controlled trial in Stockholm County. After completing the program's 10 weekly sessions, parents were invited to participate in a semi-structured interview. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. In total, 36 parents (67% mothers, mean age 39 years, 33% foreign background, 50% with university degree) were interviewed. Two main themes were developed: Emotional burden and Skills and strength from others. Emotional burden encompassed the parents' experiences of raising a child with obesity. Parents spoke about the difficulties of managing their child's appetite and of seeking help and treatment, as well as their feelings about the social stigma attached to obesity. Skills and strength from others encompassed the parents' experiences of participating in group treatment. Parents reported that they appreciated the practical behavior change techniques taught, especially those regarding food and how to make everyday life more predictable, and said the focus on parenting skills gave them the confidence to apply the techniques in everyday life. Parents also highlighted the strength of the group setting, saying it enabled them to discuss perceived challenges and learn from other parents. Our findings show that childhood obesity carries social and emotional implications for parents, and that an intervention that provides parents with skill-building and a discussion space can help in negotiating these implications. This suggests that childhood obesity intervention programs benefit from including a parent-based approach which offers training in parenting skills and support in managing socially and emotionally challenging situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Karin Nordin
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Christine Delisle Nyström
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Pernilla Sandvik
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Karin Eli
- Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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15
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Sandvik P, Ek A, Eli K, Somaraki M, Bottai M, Nowicka P. Picky eating in an obesity intervention for preschool-aged children - what role does it play, and does the measurement instrument matter? Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2019; 16:76. [PMID: 31481062 PMCID: PMC6724280 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-019-0845-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research on picky eating in childhood obesity treatment is limited and inconsistent, with various instruments and questions used. This study examines the role of picky eating in a randomized controlled obesity intervention for preschoolers using subscales from two instruments: The Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ) and the Lifestyle Behavior Checklist (LBC). METHOD The study includes 130 children (mean age 5.2 years (SD 0.7), 54% girls, mean Body Mass Index (BMI) z-score 2.9 (SD 0.6)) and their parents (nearly 60% of non-Swedish background, 40% with university degree). Families were randomized to a parent-group treatment focusing on evidence-based parenting practices or to standard treatment focusing on lifestyle changes. The children's heights and weights (BMI z-score) were measured at baseline, and at 3, 6 and 12 months post baseline. At these time-points, picky eating was reported by parents using the CEBQ (Food Fussiness scale, 6 items) and 5 items from the LBC. Child food intake was reported with a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Pearson correlation was used to study associations between baseline picky eating and baseline BMI z-scores and food intake. Mixed effects models were used to study associations between the two measurements of picky eating and changes in picky eating, to assess the effects of changes in picky eating on BMI z-scores, and to evaluate baseline picky eating as a predictor of changes in BMI z-scores. RESULTS Neither the standard treatment nor the parent-group treatment reduced the degree of picky eating (measured with CEBQ or LBC). Baseline picky eating measured with the CEBQ was associated with a lower BMI z-score and lower intake of vegetables. Children with a higher degree of picky eating at baseline (measured with the CEBQ) displayed a lower degree of weight loss. When degree of picky eating was examined, for 25% of the children, the CEBQ and the LBC yielded diverging results. CONCLUSIONS Baseline picky eating may weaken the effectiveness of obesity treatment, and assessments should be conducted before treatment to adjust the treatment approach. Different measurements of picky eating may lead to different results. The CEBQ seems more robust than the LBC in measuring picky eating. TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinicaltrials.gov , NCT01792531. Registered 15 February 2013 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01792531.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pernilla Sandvik
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Box 560, 751 22, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Social Science and Systems in Health, Division of Health Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Warwick, England.,Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, School of Anthropology and Museum Ethnography, University of Oxford, Oxford, England
| | - Maria Somaraki
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Box 560, 751 22, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Matteo Bottai
- Division of Biostatistics, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Box 560, 751 22, Uppsala, Sweden.,Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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16
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Ek A, Chamberlain KL, Sorjonen K, Hammar U, Malek ME, Sandvik P, Somaraki M, Nyman J, Lindberg L, Nordin K, Ejderhamn J, Fisher PA, Chamberlain P, Marcus C, Nowicka P. A Parent Treatment Program for Preschoolers With Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Pediatrics 2019; 144:peds.2018-3457. [PMID: 31300528 PMCID: PMC8853645 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2018-3457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Early obesity treatment seems to be the most effective, but few treatments exist. In this study, we examine the effectiveness of a parent-only treatment program with and without booster sessions (Booster or No Booster) focusing on parenting practices and standard treatment (ST). METHODS Families of children 4 to 6 years of age with obesity were recruited from 68 child care centers in Stockholm County and randomly assigned to a parent-only program (10 weeks) with or without boosters (9 months) or to ST. Treatment effects on primary outcomes (BMI z score) and secondary outcomes (BMI and waist circumference) during a 12-month period were examined with linear mixed models. The influence of sociodemographic factors was examined by 3-way interactions. The clinically significant change in BMI z score (-0.5) was assessed with risk ratios. RESULTS A total of 174 children (mean age: 5.3 years [SD = 0.8]; BMI z score: 3.0 [SD = 0.6], 56% girls) and their parents (60% foreign background; 39% university degree) were included in the analysis (Booster, n = 44; No Booster, n = 43; ST, n = 87). After 12 months, children in the parent-only treatment had a greater reduction in their BMI z score (0.30; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.45 to -0.15) compared with ST (0.07; 95% CI: -0.19 to 0.05). Comparing all 3 groups, improvements in weight status were only seen for the Booster group (-0.54; 95% CI: -0.77 to -0.30). The Booster group was 4.8 times (95% CI: 2.4 to 9.6) more likely to reach a clinically significant reduction of ≥0.5 of the BMI z score compared with ST. CONCLUSION A parent-only treatment with boosters outperformed standard care for obesity in preschoolers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention, and Technology,
| | | | - Kimmo Sorjonen
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Ulf Hammar
- Department of Biostatistics, Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden,Section of Molecular Epidemiology, Departments of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mahnoush Etminan Malek
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden,Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pernilla Sandvik
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention, and Technology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden,Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Maria Somaraki
- Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jonna Nyman
- Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Louise Lindberg
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention, and Technology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Nordin
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention, and Technology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Ejderhamn
- Astrid Lindgren Children’s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Philip A. Fisher
- Oregon Social Learning Center, Eugene, Oregon,Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
| | | | - Claude Marcus
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention, and Technology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention, and Technology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden,Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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17
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Ek A, Delisle Nyström C, Chirita-Emandi A, Tur JA, Nordin K, Bouzas C, Argelich E, Martínez JA, Frost G, Garcia-Perez I, Saez M, Paul C, Löf M, Nowicka P. A randomized controlled trial for overweight and obesity in preschoolers: the More and Less Europe study - an intervention within the STOP project. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:945. [PMID: 31307412 PMCID: PMC6631737 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-7161-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood overweight and obesity is a serious public health issue with an increase being observed in preschool-aged children. Treating childhood obesity is difficult and few countries use standardized treatments. Therefore, there is a need to find effective approaches that are feasible for both health care providers and families. Thus, the overall aim of this study is to assess the acceptance and effectiveness of a parent support program (the More and Less, ML) for the management of overweight and obesity followed by a mobile health (mHealth) program (the MINISTOP application) in a socially diverse population of families. Methods/design A two-arm, parallel design randomized controlled trial in 300 2-to 6-year-old children with overweight and obesity from Romania, Spain and Sweden (n = 100 from each). Following baseline assessments children are randomized into the intervention or control group in a 1:1 ratio. The intervention, the ML program, consists of 10-weekly group sessions which focus on evidence-based parenting practices, followed by the previously validated MINISTOP application for 6-months to support healthy eating and physical activity behaviors. The primary outcome is change in body mass index (BMI) z-score after 9-months and secondary outcomes include: waist circumference, eating behavior (Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire), parenting behavior (Comprehensive Feeding Practices Questionnaire), physical activity (ActiGraph wGT3x-BT), dietary patterns (based on metabolic markers from urine and 24 h dietary recalls), epigenetic and gut hormones (fasting blood samples), and the overall acceptance of the overweight and obesity management in young children (semi-structured interviews). Outcomes are measured at baseline and after: 10-weeks (only BMI z-score, waist circumference), 9-months (all outcomes), 15- and 21-months (all outcomes except physical activity, dietary patterns, epigenetics and gut hormones) post-baseline. Discussion This study will evaluate a parent support program for weight management in young children in three European countries. To boost the effect of the ML program the families will be supported by an app for 6-months. If the program is found to be effective, it has the potential to be implemented into routine care to reduce overweight and obesity in young children and the app could prove to be a viable option for sustained effects of the care provided. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03800823; 11 Jan 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | | | - Adela Chirita-Emandi
- Genetics Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babes", Timisoara, Romania.,"Louis Turcanu" Clinical Emergency Hospital for Children, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Josep A Tur
- Research Group on Community Nutrition & Oxidative Stress, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.,CIBER of Physiology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Karin Nordin
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cristina Bouzas
- Research Group on Community Nutrition & Oxidative Stress, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.,CIBER of Physiology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emma Argelich
- Research Group on Community Nutrition & Oxidative Stress, University of the Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.,CIBER of Physiology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Alfredo Martínez
- CIBER of Physiology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBEROBN), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Nutrition, Food Science, and Physiology, Centre for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,IMDEA Food Precision Nutrition, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gary Frost
- Section for Nutrition Research, Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, UK
| | - Isabel Garcia-Perez
- Division of Systems and Digestive Medicine, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London, UK
| | - Marc Saez
- Research Group on Statistics, Econometrics and Health (GRECS), University of Girona, Campus de Montilivi, Girona, Spain.,CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Corina Paul
- Pediatrics Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Victor Babes", Timisoara, Romania.,2nd Pediatrics Clinic, Clinical Emergency County Hospital Timisoara, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Marie Löf
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Food Studies, Nutrition, and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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18
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Participants' Perceptions of "C.H.A.M.P. Families": A Parent-Focused Intervention Targeting Paediatric Overweight and Obesity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16122171. [PMID: 31248201 PMCID: PMC6617231 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16122171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 06/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Background: Recently, our team implemented a 13-week group-based intervention for parents of children with obesity ("C.H.A.M.P. Families"). The primary objective of this study was to explore, qualitatively, parents' perspectives of their experiences in and influence of C.H.A.M.P. Families, as well as their recommendations for future paediatric obesity treatment interventions. Methods: Twelve parents (seven mothers, five fathers/step-fathers) representing seven children (four girls, three boys) with obesity participated in one of two focus groups following the intervention. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim and data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Findings showed that parents perceived their participation in C.H.A.M.P. Families to be a positive experience. Participants highlighted several positive health-related outcomes for children, families, and parents. Parents also underscored the importance and positive impact of the group environment, specific educational content, and additional program components such as free child-minding. Recommendations for future interventions were also provided, including greater child involvement and more practical strategies. Finally, parents identified several barriers including socioenvironmental issues, time constraints, and parenting challenges. Conclusions: Researchers developing family-based childhood obesity interventions should consider the balance of parent and child involvement, as well as emphasize group dynamics strategies and positive family communication.
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Sandvik P, Ek A, Somaraki M, Hammar U, Eli K, Nowicka P. Picky eating in Swedish preschoolers of different weight status: application of two new screening cut-offs. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2018; 15:74. [PMID: 30092802 PMCID: PMC6085619 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-018-0706-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Characteristics of picky eaters of different weight status have not been sufficiently investigated. We used two newly developed screening cut-offs for picky eating in the Food fussiness (FF) subscale of the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ) to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of picky eaters in preschool-aged children with thinness, normal weight, overweight or obesity. Methods Data for 1272 preschoolers (mean age 4.9 years) were analyzed. The parent-reported FF subscale ranges from 1 to 5, and two screening cut-offs were applied to classify children as picky eaters (3.0 and 3.33). Structural Equation Modeling was used to study associations with other factors in the CEBQ, the Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ) and the Lifestyle Behavior Checklist (LBC). Scores were compared separately for each weight status group. Results Nearly half of the children were classified as moderate or severe picky eaters (cut-off 3.0) and 30% as severe (cut-off 3.33). For both cut-offs, prevalence was significantly lower in the obesity group. Still, one-third of children with obesity met the cut-off of 3.0 and 17% met the cut-off of 3.33. While picky eaters displayed similar patterns across weight status groups, some differences emerged. Food responsiveness was lower for picky eaters, but the difference was significant only among children with obesity. Slowness in eating was not as pronounced among picky eaters in the obesity group. In the overweight and obesity groups, parents of picky eaters did not report as high pressure to eat, as compared to the thinness or normal weight groups; in the obesity group, parents of picky eaters also perceived their children’s weight as lower. In all weight status groups, parents of picky eaters were more likely to report their children had too much screen time, complained about physical activity, and expressed negative affect toward food. Conclusions Picky eating was less common but still prevalent among children with obesity. Future studies should investigate the potential influence of picky eating on childhood overweight and obesity. Moreover, as children with picky eating display higher emotional sensitivity, further research is needed to understand how to create positive eating environments particularly for children with picky eating and obesity. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12966-018-0706-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pernilla Sandvik
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Anna Ek
- Unit of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Somaraki
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Ulf Hammar
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Department of Food Studies, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Unit of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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20
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van der Heijden LB, Feskens EJM, Janse AJ. Maintenance interventions for overweight or obesity in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obes Rev 2018; 19:798-809. [PMID: 29363283 DOI: 10.1111/obr.12664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Revised: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Childhood obesity is associated with significant health consequences. Although several intervention programmes for children result in weight loss or stabilization in the short-term, preventing relapse after treatment remains an important challenge. This systematic review summarizes the evidence about maintenance interventions after treatment in childhood obesity. Studies were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO, CINAHL and SocINDEX. The primary outcome measure for this review was body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-Z-score). Data were pooled using quality effect models. Eleven studies (1,532 participants, age 2-18 years) were included, covering a wide range of maintenance approaches. Included studies varied widely in methodological quality. Pooled analysis showed that the BMI-Z-score of maintenance intervention participants remained stable, whereas control participants experienced a slight increase. No differences were observed regarding intensity and duration of therapy. A slight preference for 'face-to-face' versus 'on distance' interventions was shown. In summary, this review shows that, although there is limited quality data to recommend one maintenance intervention over another, continued treatment does have a stabilizing effect on BMI-Z-score. Considering the magnitude of the problem of childhood obesity, this is an important finding that highlights the need for further research on weight loss maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - E J M Feskens
- Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - A J Janse
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Gelderse Vallei, Ede, The Netherlands
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21
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Perceived child eating behaviours and maternal migrant background. Appetite 2018; 125:302-313. [PMID: 29438715 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2018.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 11/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The Child Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ) is a well-established instrument in the study of obesity-related eating behaviours among children. However, research using the CEBQ in multicultural samples is limited. This study aims to identify and examine differences in child eating behaviours as reported by Swedish-born and non-Swedish-born mothers living in Sweden. Mothers (n = 1310, 74 countries of origin, mean age 36.5 years, 63.6% with higher education, 29.2% with overweight or obesity) of children aged 3-8 years (mean age 4.8 years, 18.1% with overweight or obesity) completed the CEBQ. Responses were analysed using CEBQ subscales Food Responsiveness, Emotional Overeating, Enjoyment of Food, and Desire to Drink, clustering into Food Approach, and subscales Satiety Responsiveness, Slowness in Eating, Emotional Undereating, and Food Fussiness, clustering into Food Avoidance. Data were compared across seven regional groups, divided by maternal place of birth: (1) Sweden (n = 941), (2) Nordic and Western Europe (n = 68), (3) Eastern and Southern Europe (n = 97), (4) the Middle East and North Africa (n = 110), (5) East, South and Southeast Asia (n = 52), (6) Sub-Saharan Africa (n = 16), and (7) Central and South America (n = 26). Crude, partly and fully adjusted linear regression models controlled for child's age, gender and weight status, and mother's education, weight status and concern about child weight. The moderation effect of maternal concern about child weight was examined through interaction analyses. Results showed that while Food Approach and Food Avoidance behaviours were associated with maternal migrant background, associations for Food Fussiness were limited. Notably, mothers born in the Middle East and North Africa reported higher frequencies of both Food Approach (except for Enjoyment of Food) and Food Avoidance. The study highlights the importance of examining how regionally-specific maternal migrant background affects mothers' perceptions of child eating behaviours.
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Abstract
The impact of childhood obesity on the Swedish Health Care system is described. Childhood Obesity and Diabetes Type 2 is increasing for the last 10 years, but not Diabetes Type 1. Thus, prevention is needed. How to define prevention of obesity? Could treatment of childhood obesity be regarded as prevention of adult obesity? Of course it could, but we are lacking a long term follow-up from childhood to adulthood. However, we know that childhood obesity is a risk factor for adult disease. But we need long-lasting results in children to being able to state that we have prevented adult obesity. What about treatment of children with overweight, i.e. defined as the less severe level of an increased body weight as opposed to obesity? There are few if any studies restricting the treatment only to overweight children. Normally, obese children are treated, and some overweight children are added usually to increase the study sample. Then of course promotion of a healthy lifestyle could be of major interest. Finally, the traditional concept of primary prevention seems to be the only solution that is realistic according to many. However, there is no clear pattern when primary prevention works.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carl-Erik Flodmark
- *Dr. Carl-Erik Flodmark, Childhood Obesity Unit, Skåne University Hospital, 20502 Malmö, Sweden,
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Controlling feeding practices and maternal migrant background: an analysis of a multicultural sample. Public Health Nutr 2016; 20:848-858. [DOI: 10.1017/s1368980016002834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
AbstractObjectiveParental feeding practices shape children’s relationships with food and eating. Feeding is embedded socioculturally in values and attitudes related to food and parenting. However, few studies have examined associations between parental feeding practices and migrant background.DesignCross-sectional study. Parental feeding practices (restriction, pressure to eat, monitoring) were assessed using the Child Feeding Questionnaire. Differences were explored in four sub-samples grouped by maternal place of birth: Sweden, Nordic/Western Europe, Eastern/Southern Europe and countries outside Europe. Crude, partly and fully adjusted linear regression models were created. Potential confounding variables included child’s age, gender and weight status, and mother’s age, weight status, education and concern about child weight.SettingMalmö and Stockholm, Sweden.SubjectsMothers (n1325, representing seventy-three countries; mean age 36·5 years; 28·1 % of non-Swedish background; 30·7 % with overweight/obesity; 62·8 % with university education) of pre-school children (mean age 4·8 years; 50·8 % boys; 18·6 % with overweight/obesity).ResultsNon-Swedish-born mothers, whether European-born or non-European-born, were more likely to use restriction. Swedish-born mothers and Nordic/Western European-born mothers reported lower levels of pressure to eat compared with mothers born in Eastern/Southern Europe and mothers born outside Europe. Differences in monitoring were small. Among the potential confounding variables, child weight status and concern about child weight were highly influential. Concern about child weight accounted for some of the effect of maternal origin on restriction.ConclusionsNon-European-born mothers were more concerned about children being overweight and more likely to report controlling feeding practices. Future research should examine acculturative and structural factors underlying differences in feeding.
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Ek A, Sorjonen K, Eli K, Lindberg L, Nyman J, Marcus C, Nowicka P. Associations between Parental Concerns about Preschoolers' Weight and Eating and Parental Feeding Practices: Results from Analyses of the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire, the Child Feeding Questionnaire, and the Lifestyle Behavior Checklist. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0147257. [PMID: 26799397 PMCID: PMC4723125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0147257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 01/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Insight into parents’ perceptions of their children’s eating behaviors is crucial for the development of successful childhood obesity programs. However, links between children’s eating behaviors and parental feeding practices and concerns have yet to be established. This study aims to examine associations between parental perceptions of preschoolers’ eating behaviors and parental feeding practices. First, it tests the original 8-factor structure of the Child Eating Behavior Questionnaire (CEBQ). Second, it examines the associations with parental feeding practices, measured with the Child Feeding Questionnaire (CFQ). Materials and Methods Questionnaires were sent to parents from 25 schools/preschools in Stockholm, Sweden and to parents starting a childhood obesity intervention. The CEBQ factor structure was tested with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Associations between CEBQ subscales Food approach and Food avoidance and CFQ factors Restriction, Pressure to eat and Monitoring were examined with structural equation modelling (SEM), adjusting for child and parental characteristics, and parental confidence, measured with the Lifestyle Behavior Checklist (LBC). CFQ Concern for child weight and Perceived responsibility for child eating were used as mediators. Results 478 parents completed the questionnaires (children: 52% girls, mean age 5.5 years, 20% overweight/obese). A modified 8-factor structure showed an acceptable fit (TLI = 0.91, CFI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.05 and SRMR = 0.06) after dropping one item and allowing three pairs of error terms to correlate. The SEM model demonstrated that Food approach had a weak direct effect on Restriction, but a moderate (β = 0.30) indirect effect via Concern, resulting in a substantial total effect (β = 0.37). Food avoidance had a strong positive effect on Pressure to eat (β = 0.71). Discussion The CEBQ is a valid instrument for assessing parental perceptions of preschoolers’ eating behaviors. Parental pressure to eat was strongly associated with children’s food avoidance. Parental restriction, however, was more strongly associated with parents’ concerns about their children’s weights than with children’s food approach. This suggests that childhood obesity interventions should address parents’ perceptions of healthy weight alongside perceptions of healthy eating.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ek
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kimmo Sorjonen
- Division of Psychology, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden
| | - Karin Eli
- Unit for Biocultural Variation and Obesity, Institute of Social and Cultural Anthropology, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Louise Lindberg
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonna Nyman
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Claude Marcus
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Paulina Nowicka
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- * E-mail:
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