For teens, weight loss is a tricky topic, says TeensHealth from the Nemours Foundation. Many teens are unhappy with their weight, but they don't know what to do about it. Teens need to eat enough to support their growth and development, and severely restrictive diets are not appropriate. An eating plan for teens should be healthy and one they can follow for life. Have your teen talk with her doctor before she undertakes any weight-loss plan.
Slimkids
Slimkids is a weight-management program developed by a long-time pediatric nurse. The program focuses on teaching teens how to make better food choices and control their portions. The Slimkids diet is balanced and designed to provide adequate nutrition to support your teen's continued growth and development while he loses lose weight. Teens usually lose about 1 to 2 lbs. a week, according to the Slimkids website. The diet is not overly restrictive and allows teens to eat some of their favorite foods, such as hot dogs and hamburgers. The program includes sample menus, recipes, after-school snack ideas, tips for healthy eating during the holidays and a food diary.
Shapedown
Shapedown is a group-based weight-management program developed at the University of California Medical School in San Fransisco. The program is run by Shapedown-trained professionals and is available all over the country. You and your teen meet once a week for 10 weeks with other families struggling with weight control to learn how to be more active and make better food choices as a family. Shapedown encourages family involvement, because teens are more successful when they have the support of their families. Teens following the Shapedown program usually lose 1 to 2 lbs. a week, according to the Shapedown website.
BodyWorks
BodyWorks is a national weight-management program for parents of teens designed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. BodyWorks focuses on parents as role models who can teach all family members how to make healthy lifestyle changes. The program includes a guide to healthy eating for both parents and teens, weekly menu planners, food and fitness journals, a recipe book and a healthy eating shopping list.
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