In the years 2007-2008, more than 18 percent of American adolescents were overweight or obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Parents, many of whom often don't recognize their children's weight issues, can help their teenage kids combat weight gain with a few simple changes.
Know Your Child's BMI
What you think is just "baby fat" may really be evidence that your child is overweight for her age and height. Partner with your child's pediatrician to help her lose weight and keep it off. The pediatrician can help to monitor your child's body mass index, or BMI, to determine your child's weight status. Body mass index is a calculation of body fat using height, weight and gender. Work together to come up with healthy meal plans and appropriate exercise or recreational activities for your 13-year-old.
Monitor Screen Time
Time spent on sedentary activities such as watching TV, playing computer games or surfing on social sites are key factors in weight gain for teens. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting children over the age of 2 to just two hours of screen time daily. If necessary, use software to restrict your teen's access to TV or the Internet.
Encourage Healthy Surfing
During those two hours of screen time, encourage your 13-year-old to check out healthy weight-loss and fitness sites for teens, such as SparkTeens or BlubberBusters, for extra motivation and insight. These sites provide a support network for your teen so he doesn't feel alone in his struggle. They provide nutrition and fitness plans, forums where teens can share their stories and challenges that can keep them motivated. Make sure you thoroughly vet any site before recommending it to your teen. Sites that promote anorexia and bulimia are still out there.
Make It a Family Affair
Show support for your young teen's weight-loss efforts by modeling healthy behavior yourself. Your teen won't appreciate it if you're serving her steamed fish and salad greens while you're chowing down on a double cheeseburger with fries. Buy nutritious foods the whole family can enjoy, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low-fat dairy. Encourage your teen to sign up for a sport, and take the family to cheer her on. After dinner, cycle, rollerblade or play extreme Frisbee together at a nearby park. Incorporate weight-loss efforts into your entire family's lifestyle.
References
- UNC School of Medicine: Simple Tools Help Parents Understand a Child's Risk of Obesity, Make Positive Changes
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Partner with Your Pediatrician
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Sedentary Behavior/Federal -- Restrict Screen Time
- SparkTeen: Are You Ready to Make Your Life an Adventure?
- BlubberBusters: Welcome to BlubberBusters.com
- FamilyDoctor.org: Weight Issues in Children
Member Comments