In spite of programs and policies designed to reduce obesity, the obesity rate among children is rapidly rising. According to The Trust for America's Health, almost 30 percent of children and teenagers in America are overweight or obese. Teens who are overweight often struggle with self-esteem issues and frustration with their weight. If there is a teenager in your life who you think needs to lose weight, there are steps you can take to help him overcome his attachment to food and lose the weight he desires.
Instructions
Step 1
Meet with your teenager's pediatrician and ask her to perform a complete physical to rule out any underlying physical problems that could contribute to weight gain. Ask the pediatrician to recommend a weight range that is appropriate for your son or daughter. Encourage your teenager to ask questions during the visit. .
Step 2
Schedule a family meeting to discuss how your teenager feels about her weight and appearance. Hiram E. Fitzgerald, Ph.D. and colleagues, authors of the book "Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence," say, "Children in today's society are caught between the stresses of everyday life and society's standards of physical appearance." Listen carefully to her comments and remain supportive and encouraging. Tell her that you will work together to help her get healthier.
Step 3
Talk with your teenager about his current lifestyle. Cover topics such as the types of food he eats while away from home and beverages he drinks. According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, boys between the ages of 12 and 19 drink 868 cans of soft drinks a year, while girls drink more than 200 cans per year. Discuss how often he eats fast food and devise strategies to reduce that number. Analyze how many hours he spends each week on the computer or playing video games and set new standards.
Step 4
Sit down and plan weekly meals with your teenager using a low-fat cookbook. Include snacks, breakfast and lunches. Encourage her participation in the preparation of healthy meals and be willing to try new recipes she suggests. When eating, serve the proper portions to all family members and encourage each other to the correct portion sizes. A publication from the University of Michigan Health System recommends that you turn off the television while eating meals together.
Step 5
Ask your teen to tell you how he feels about exercise and physical activity. A publication from the Weight-Control Information Network recommends you set a good example by being physically active yourself, encouraging him to join a sports team or take a class at a gym and be aware of his needs. If he does not like sports, brainstorm with him to develop a list of activities he does enjoy, such as riding bikes, running around with his siblings or jumping on a trampoline. Tell your teen he should be active about one hour a day.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not use food as a reward for good school performance. Avoid processed foods when possible. Have healthy snacks available at home.
- Do not be critical of your child's weight. Learn the signs of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia.
Things You'll Need
- Low-fat cookbook
References
- Trust for America's Health: F as in Fat: How Obesity Threatens America's Future 2010
- Obesity in Childhood and Adolescence: Volume 2 Understanding Development and Prevention"; Praeger Publishers; Hiram E. Fitzgerald Ph.D, Dr. H. Dele Davies; 2008
- Center for Science in the Public Interest: Liquid Candy Highlights
- University of Michigan Health System: Obesity and Overweight
- Weight Control Information Network: Helping Your Overweight Child
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