The percentage of teens and children in the U.S. considered obese has risen sharply since the 1980s, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The percentage of obese kids was 15 percent in 2000, triple the percent in 1980. Obese teens deal with self-esteem problems as well as greater risks of diabetes and cardiovascular complications. To combat this public health problem, governments and school systems have tried to encourage healthier eating and more active lifestyles. But the most effective and lasting solutions may be found within the teen's family.
Causes
Obesity is defined as weighing at least 10 percent more than the recommended body weight for your height and build. The causes include genetic, biological or medical reasons, and behavioral factors, but at the root of obesity is the consumption of more calories than are burned up. Overeating, combined with a sedentary lifestyle, can be common among teens who consume fattening junk food and spend too much time in front of a computer or television. The reasons for these behaviors can include factors ranging from depression and emotional stress to a family history of obesity.
Complications
Obese teens may have become obese due to low self-esteem, depression or other emotional problems stemming from their parents' divorce, for example. But being obese can exacerbate a teen's emotional stress and contribute to being bullied, socially isolated and feeling generally unhappy. The physical health risks associated with teen obesity include sleeping difficulties, high blood pressure, breathing difficulties and a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Obese teens are also more likely to be obese adults.
Treatment
An obese teen should undergo a thorough medical exam to determine if there is a medical reason for the condition. If there is no biological cause, then the teen should start to change certain behaviors. This usually requires the involvement of parents, too. Steps to reduce calorie intake and boost calorie burning include smaller portions, healthy foods and snacks, nutrition education, a more active lifestyle with the goal of 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Psychological counseling may help the teen address the causes of his initial overeating and help deal with the aftermath of being obese. Counseling can also help teens find the inner motivation to stay healthy.
Prevention
To avoid problems of teen obesity in your family, take steps to eliminate some of the common causes. For example, set a limit on TV and computer time, perhaps limiting video game playing to weekends only or no more than half an hour each day. Encourage activities that get teens up and moving, such as sports, dance or part-time jobs that will keep kids on their feet. Don't have soda and junk food in the house and prepare meals that have lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, and skim-milk products.
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