

One of Danielle's recent goals was to mix up her exercises to prevent boredom and to create a more balanced workout routine. They go to the gym together or borrow exercise videos from the library and work out to them. Children over 10 years old also have blood work done to check lipids, glucose, insulin levels, thyroid and liver function." Doctors then follow up monthly to see how patients are feeling, to review and reset goals, and to check weight and body mass index.Īfter counseling with Gellner, the Martinez family started exercising together several times a week.

Gellner explains, "We review each patient's diet, exercise, and social structure to see where each person needs improvement or support. She also worked with the Martinez family to ensure they had the tools and support needed to turn Danielle's health around.Īt Westridge Health Center, one of the health centers at University of Utah Health, doctors strive to tailor healthy living programs for each patient. Gellner prescribed regular exercise, a visit to a dietitian to learn healthy eating habits, and monthly visits where she could monitor Danielle's progress. And worse, if Danielle didn't lower her cholesterol, she would likely develop type 2 diabetes within a few short months.ĭanielle's pediatrician, Cindy Gellner, MD, had a plan to help Danielle. With triglycerides at 460, she was more than 300 points above the recommended level for a healthy adult. At a regular checkup to see her family pediatrician, 13-year old Danielle Martinez learned that her cholesterol levels were dangerously high.
