It's tough to identify your ideal weight when you're constantly surrounded by underweight models on the covers of beauty magazines. Sadly, even the thinnest teens are convinced by societal norms that they need to lose more weight in order to look attractive. Before you set out to follow any diet and exercise regimen, commit to being healthy. Focusing on your health will be the easiest way to lose weight if you truly could stand to shed a few pounds.
Healthy Weight
To determine whether you're at a healthy weight or to gauge how much weight you should lose to become healthier, talk with your doctor or a registered dietitian. Since your doctor has been keeping track of your health history, he should be able to tell you whether your weight is right for you in your current stage of development. A doctor or dietitian also can create a specialized dietary and exercise plan that will help you lose weight gradually.
Activity
Getting physical activity on a regular basis will help keep you fit, even if you don't need to lose weight. Teens need to get about 60 minutes of physical activity every day, according to MayoClinic.com. However, if a full hour seems overwhelming, know that you don't need to get all of that exercise at once. Simply riding your bike or walking to school, taking the stairs instead of an elevator, walking your dog after dinner and dancing during your favorite television show can get you all the activity you need. On the other hand, you also may want to get involved with a team sport or take a dance class for fun.
Diet
Make your meals as colorful as possible by adding in different fruits and vegetables; according to the Nemours Foundation, you should be eating five servings of each on a daily basis. Don't try to completely cut out one type of food. Focus on replacing certain foods in your diet. For instance, replace white bread with whole wheat bread, drink carbonated water with an orange slice when you're craving soda and eat healthy snacks all day to fend off cravings. Stick string cheese, pretzels, celery and peanut butter or an apple in your backpack before you leave for school.
Considerations
Inviting your mom, dad and brother to join you in your endeavor can help keep you on track with your new weight loss plan and improve your whole family's health. Go to the store with your parents and pick out plenty of whole grains, fruits and veggies. Skip the junk food aisle or limit your family to one treat, such as a box of cookies, each week. Also, vow to eat together in the kitchen or dining room rather than in front of the television. While you enjoy a meal, mingle with your family and keep track of your fullness levels. Consider going on active family outings, such as trips to the local skating rink.
Warning
Fad diets and diet pills are unhealthy for everyone, especially teens who need adequate nutrition as they continue to grow, according to the Nemours Foundation. You're also putting your health at risk if you commit to never again eat your favorite treats, as forbidding them may cause you to crave them and eventually binge out of frustration.
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