Teens can become self conscious about their weight as they enter high school, especially around important events like prom and homecoming. Some may even be tempted to try crash diets, fasting or other unhealthy means of losing weight. Fortunately, teens are armed with a secret weapon: fast metabolisms and mostly active lifestyles that lend themselves well to weight loss when used and directed in the proper way. Physical activity and a healthy diet are the best ways for a teen to lose weight properly.
Step 1
Start every day with breakfast. The Mayo Clinic notes that when you skip breakfast after a long night of sleep, your body goes into starvation mode and begins saving up fat to keep your energized when you're not eating. Even if you're short on time on the way to class, a granola bar and milk, string cheese and an apple or a breakfast smoothie are good choices to kick start your metabolism for the day to burn calories.
Step 2
Avoid the mid-morning and mid-afternoon school slump you usually combat with sugary candy from the school vending machines. Sneak in a handful of almonds between periods or eat a lunch that has lots of healthy fiber from whole wheat bread, lean turnkey and leafy greens to keep you satisfied longer, so you aren't tempted by fattening treats.
Step 3
Take brisk walks through a shopping mall; instead of using the escalator, try the stairs. You'll find that there is so much to look at, you don't even notice you're exercising. You can also check out potential prom dresses while you're there. While it might sound like it won't help much, just walking around and doing routine window shopping can burn calories.
Step 4
Go to your favorite fast food hang out with your friends, but instead of getting the burger and fries, look for options that are healthier. Although a salad might be too obviously healthy for you to eat around your french fry loving friends, a grilled chicken wrap may go undetected as a healthier option.
Step 5
Find ways to exercise while around the house, so you don't have to buy a pricey gym membership or pester your parents to drive you there. Do your homework while sitting on a balance ball to tighten abdominal muscles, or do lunges during the commercials of your favorite prime time television show. Small, simple changes can help teens lose weight over time.
Tips and Warnings
- The weight-loss website startlosingweightnow.com recommends joining a school activity or team to get more physical activity. Even if you aren't a star quarterback, you could try out for other sports or join an outdoor activity club to promote a healthier lifestyle overall.
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