New OTC Diet Pill Is Not for Kids

What This Means to You

Alli is not for kids and teens. It is only approved for adults, and hasn't been tested in or recommended for kids. That said, kids still can go into a store and buy the drug without having to show proof that they're at least 18 years old.

It's important to make sure your kids stay away from Alli. Not only does it have the potential to interfere with healthy growth and development, but it also sends the message that there's a quick fix for weight control. And in kids who may be at risk for eating disorders such as bulimia, this over-the-counter drug could be seen as one more dangerous shortcut.

Parents who have concerns about their kids' weight should talk with a doctor, who can determine whether a child is at a healthy weight and, if necessary, create a weight-management plan. It's important for kids to follow a program tailored to their specific needs by a doctor.

Even if you've had success from dieting, it's not a good idea to put your child on a diet unless it's under the supervision of a doctor. Kids have different nutritional requirements — even when they're trying to lose weight — and need certain vitamins and nutrients to grow and develop well.

But you can encourage kids to reach and maintain a healthy weight by integrating healthy eating and exercise into your family's lifestyle:

• Lead by example. The foods you eat and your attitude about food and exercise send powerful messages to kids. So if you eat fast food or complain about exercise and physical activities, kids will follow your lead. If you show them that it feels good to eat healthy foods and that physical activities can be fun, they'll follow that lead too.
• Help kids find an activity that fits. A workout doesn't have to feel like work for kids. Get them involved in an activity they enjoy — try soccer, bike riding, or running. Find something that helps build your child's self-esteem and is an opportunity to socialize with other kids.
• Help kids understand what's healthy. Teach your kids what "healthy food" is (low in fat; high in fiber, vitamins, and nutrients) and how to read a food label so that they know how to make good food choices — even when you're not around.
• Draw the lines. You control the food supply, determining what to buy for your household. So stock up on healthy fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins — and keep junk food out.
• Limit screen time. Limit the total time kids spend watching TV, playing video games, or working on the computer to 2 hours each day.
• Teach kids the difference between health and hype. Spend time with kids flipping through favorite magazines and watching TV shows and movies. Talk about the images of the people you see — and all that goes into creating their appearances. Help them understand that fad diets sold on magazine covers are unrealistic and can be dangerously unhealthy.
• Encourage a healthy attitude about weight, appearance, and body image. Help kids develop a healthy perspective on their appearance and weight.