I Am 16 Years Old & I Need to Lose Weight

I Am 16 Years Old & I Need to Lose Weight
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From fitting into that prom dress or trying to improve your image, losing weight can be a challenge. With so many temptations from vending machines to movie theater treats it can tough for the social teen to avoid temptation. With a clear goal in mind and a little support losing excess weight can be a fun and easily attainable endeavor.

Gather Support

Talk to your family and tell them about the decision you have reached and the goal you have in mind. Your family can show support by fixing healthier meals and doling out encouragement along the way. Talk to close friends about your plan, they may even want to join you. Remember you have resources available in the form of your school councilor, family and close friends.

Get Physical

If your hobbies include watching television and playing video games, it's time to shake things up. Get involved in sports at school or your local YMCA. Consider taking an additional gym class if you can fit it into your schedule. Walk to school if it's feasible for the extra exercise. Start looking for reasons and places to walk rather than driving or catching a ride with someone.

Eat Healthier

Rather than eating school lunches or worse yet, lunch from the vending machine, pack your own lunch and bring it to school. Include healthy things in your lunch as well as some healthy snacks to eat during the day. The key is to not let yourself get too hungry which may lead to binge eating. Drink water throughout the day and before every meal to help get you full faster. Consider granola bars, fresh fruits and vegetables instead of chips and candy bars. Make it a point not to skip breakfast in the morning before you go to school, this will help to kick start your metabolism and help to fight off hunger throughout the morning.

Avoid Temptation

If you're out with friends ask to avoid hanging out in places where junk food is a temptation. If you're going to see a movie get a small unbuttered popcorn if you plan to snack and avoid the candy all together. Eat a healthy snack or meal before going out to help curb hunger and the temptation to stop and grab a quick bite.

References

Article reviewed by Melanie Zoltan Last updated on: May 26, 2011

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