Weight loss and teenagers can prove a tricky combination, according to the Nemours Foundation. Teens need to make sure they eat enough to support their continued growth and development, so restrictive adult diets may not provide enough nutrients. Instead, teenagers should follow diets that teach them long-term healthy eating habits for lifelong weight management.
Slimkids
Slimkids is an at-home weight-management program for teenagers. It is a balanced diet program that uses the U.S. Dietary Guidelines to make sure teenagers get enough nutrients to support their growth and development. The teenagers follow a calorie-controlled meal plan, but do not have to count calories. Instead, they learn how to make healthy choices and control portions.
In addition to diet guidelines, the plan includes sample menus, recipes, a food diary, holiday eating guide and tips for eating after school. Teenagers usually lose one to two pounds a week following the program, according to the website.
USDA MyPyramid Plan
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's MyPyramid diet guide was developed to teach all Americans how to eat healthy. Teenagers can use the MyPyramid Plan to devise their own personal diet based on their age, weight, height, sex and activity level. The includes calorie needs and recommendations on what to eat from each food group. The diet emphasizes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and it teaches teenagers how to choose the most nutrient-dense foods from each food group. The MyPyramid Plan also includes tips on how to increase physical activity.
Shapedown
Shapedown is a 10-week group-based weight-management program. Teenagers and their families meet once a week for two hours with trained professionals and learn how to increase physical activity as a family and make better food choices. Shapedown emphasizes family involvement, because teens are more successful at losing weight when they have the support of their family, according to the website.
In addition to learning healthy habits, Shapedown also works on building the teenager's self-esteem and body image. The Shapedown program is gentle, according to the website, and the diet is far from restrictive. Teenagers will lose up to two pounds a week following the program, according to the website.
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