Lots of teens are unhappy with their weight, but they don't know how to change it. Some may consider crash diets; others, no diet at all. Teens shouldn't be looking for short-term diets; they need long-term solutions instead. A safe diet for younger teenagers should teach them how to make good food and lifestyle choices that they can carry into adulthood, according to the Nemours Foundation.
Shapedown
Shapedown is a 10-week group weight-management program. It works with both the parent and teen to improve self-esteem and peer and parent relationships and to learn healthier habits to get to a healthier weight. Parents and their teens meet for two hours once a week with a Shapedown-trained professional and other families to learn how to increase physical activity and make healthier food choices. In addition to learning about diet and exercise, Shapedown also offers family therapy working on the teen's problem-solving skills, assertiveness and emotional expressiveness, while the parents learn how to set limits and still be nurturing. Shapedown is a gentle program, and, according to the website, the diet is not restrictive but teens lose about 2 lbs. a week.
Go, Slow and Whoa
The Go, Slow and Whoa program is part of the We Can national weight-management program developed by the National Institutes of Health. It is a simple program for young teens and their parents to follow. It divides foods into three groups. Go foods are low in calorie and nutrient-dense, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and fat free dairy foods. Teens are encouraged to eat as many of these foods as they want. The Slow foods have a few more calories and fat and may not be as nutritious, according to the National Heart Blood and Lung Institute website. Slow foods include fruit juice, refined flours and low-fat dairy foods. Whoa foods are calorie-dense and should only be consumed once in a while. Examples of Whoa foods include french fries, doughnuts, fried chicken and cookies.
Slimkids
Slimkids is an at-home weight-management program designed by a pediatric nurse. The plan has been reviewed and approved by pediatricians and dietitians, according to the website. The diet is based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and is balanced to provide the right amount of nutrients to support a young teen's normal growth and development. The teens are placed on a calorie-controlled meal plan and taught how to make healthier food choices. The plan is not restrictive, according to the website, and teens can still eat their favorite foods including hot dogs and hamburgers. The plan includes food diaries, meal plans, recipes, eating out, and holiday guides and online support for parents.
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