As a teenager, your actions today will directly impact your future self. Smoking, poor dietary choices and a sedentary lifestyle as a teen can reflect as an adult with heart problems, obesity and the risk for stroke. Teens can stay healthy by caring for their bodies holistically--the health of their mind, body and spirit comes from the choices they make daily.
Nurture the Body
Step 1
Feed your body nutrients for healthful calories and growth. Adolescents can grow up to 10 inches during the teen years--make the food choices that grow those inches count. Choose a variety of nutritious foods such as whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, fruit and dairy. The nutrients in these foods provide vitamins, minerals and electrolytes for a healthy body.
Step 2
Stay hydrated and avoid fatigue. Teens involved in endurance sports, such as running, may need to consume more water during their games and practice. Drink about eight glasses of water a day and remember to replace the water lost through sweat, tears and urine.
Step 3
Build a strong frame for health through exercise. Routine exercise, such as sports, dance or martial arts, should use about 60 minutes of your day, every day. This moderate exercise promotes a healthy body image, mental stimulation and will make you a healthier adult.
Monitor the Spirit
Step 1
Spend time with family and friends to establish strong bonds and a support system. The teenage years provide an introduction into the socialization skills that will be required for the rest of your life.
Step 2
Ask for help if you need it. Suicide ranks in the top four reasons for teen fatalities. If you think about harming yourself or others it is urgent that you tell someone responsible.
Step 3
Watch for warning behaviors--increasing physical violence or outbursts for teen boys and eating disorders in girls need to be addressed immediately. Monitor your friends, as well, and offer support while guiding them to a responsible adult to discuss their urges.
Stay Safe
Step 1
Abstain from sex. Unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases are the lifelong consequences of having unprepared sex as a teen.
Step 2
Quit smoking or don't be pressured into starting. Don't tamper with those perfectly healthy lungs by inhaling nicotine and tobacco. Stay away from illegal drugs and any crowds that steer you in that direction.
Step 3
Wear your seat belt every time you get in a car. Alongside suicide, automobile accidents are a major killer of teens. And never, ever condone drinking alcohol and driving.
Tips and Warnings
- Teen resources are abundant including parents, siblings, friends, school guidance counselors and teachers as well as respected community leaders.
