When it comes to teens and weight loss, the first person you and your teen need to talk to is her doctor. The doctor can evaluate your teen's weight and help her determine a healthy weight goal. A diet for a teen should not be overly restrictive and should include foods that she likes, because this needs to be a diet she can follow for life.
Shapedown
Shapedown is a group-based weight-management program developed by faculty at the University of California Medical Center at San Fransisco. It is offered all over the country, and local Shapedown programs can be located through the Shapedown website. The program involves two-hour weekly group meetings for your teen and you, along with other families struggling with weight issues. At the meetings you learn how to be more active as a family to burn calories for weight loss and how to make better food choices. The program also works on improving your teen's self-esteem and body image. Shapedown emphasizes family involvement, noting teens have more success losing weight and keeping it off when the whole family works together.
Slimkids
Slimkids is a weight-management program developed by a nurse with more than 27 years of child-care experience. The plan teaches your teen how to make better food choices and control portions to limit his caloric intake. The diet is nutritionally balanced and based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, but it still includes teen favorites such as hamburgers and hot dogs. The program offers guidelines, sample menus, recipes and tools for eating at holidays and after school. Once you order the program you have access to online support to help your teen manage his weight loss.
BodyWorks
BodyWorks is a national program for parents designed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It works by teaching parents how to make behavior changes to prevent obesity and maintain a healthy weight, according to the BodyWorks website. The theory is that by being a good role model you will encourage your teen to follow. BodyWorks trainers are available throughout the country.
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