090: Putting a Dent in the Childhood Obesity Pandemic with Dr. Roxanne George

NHA Health Science Podcast

The health of children today is a growing concern, with rising rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and early signs of heart disease becoming increasingly prevalent. Recent studies have shown that even children as young as 10, consuming a standard American diet (SAD), exhibit fatty streaks in their blood vessels—a precursor to heart disease. Type 2 diabetes, once primarily an adult disease, is now being diagnosed more frequently in adolescents. These alarming trends highlight the urgent need for better nutritional education and lifestyle changes from an early age.

Dr. Roxanne George's Journey into Lifestyle Medicine

One medical professional who is committed to turning these trends around is Dr. Roxanne George, a board-certified pediatrician. On the most recent episode of the NHA Health Science podcast, Dr. George shared her transformative journey and insights into combating these health challenges with host, Dr. Frank Sabatino.

Initially drawn to epigenetics and cystic fibrosis research during her college years, Dr. George's career trajectory shifted significantly when she moved to Houston. There, she encountered alarmingly high childhood obesity rates, which underscored the inadequacies of current nutritional education in pediatric care.

Discovering the Impact of Plant-Based Nutrition

In Houston, Dr. George discovered the critical need to address childhood obesity and nutritional deficiencies. Her research revealed flaws in traditional dietary recommendations, particularly those promoting dairy consumption for calcium. She found that dairy products were associated with increased risks of cancer, diabetes, and high saturated fat levels. This revelation prompted Dr. George to explore plant-based nutrition as a healthier alternative.

A Personal and Professional Transformation

Dr. George's deep dive into the benefits of a plant-based diet led to a personal and professional shift. Influenced by seminal works like the China Study, she embraced a plant-based lifestyle almost overnight. This shift not only improved her own health but also reinforced her commitment to advocating plant-based nutrition within her pediatric practice.

Addressing Early Onset of Chronic Diseases

Dr. George is particularly concerned about the early onset of chronic diseases among children. The presence of fatty streaks in the blood vessels of 10-year-olds and the rising incidence of type 2 diabetes in adolescents highlight the critical need for dietary interventions. She advocates for a plant-based diet rich in fiber and low in saturated fats to combat these trends and improve long-term health outcomes.

Integrating Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine

Dr. George's practice integrates nutrition and lifestyle medicine into every pediatric visit. While her colleagues may not all be plant-based, they share a commitment to promoting nutrition and healthy lifestyles. Dr. George emphasizes the gradual incorporation of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into meals, making dietary transitions smoother and more sustainable for families.

www.HealthScience.org/podcast/090-Dr-Roxanne-George