To help combat this growing epidemic, the american heart association suggests doctors use the power of social media to help obese kids lose weight.
a review of research found online weight loss tools were successful in helping overweight children and teens lose weight -- as long as their parents were involved and they interacted with their online counselor frequently.
experts say virtual support networks can work as well as those in the real world -- and because most teens are internet savvy -- this could be the best way to have a positive impact on their waistline.
they are encouraging pediatricians to utilize online weight loss tools for their patients more often.