According to the American Heart Association, about one in three teens is overweight or obese. Since your teenager is still growing, it is important that she does not try to lose weight too quickly, such as through skipping meals or going on fad diets. Do not allow your teen to begin any weight loss program before talking to her doctor first, and concentrate more on health improvement than on strict calorie counting.
Concentrate on the Basics
Encourage your teenager to make healthy food choices each day. If he is choosing fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean sources of protein over chips, candy, soft drinks and refined carbohydrates, he will more than likely be taking in fewer calories, which leads to weight loss. Teenagers need about an hour of physical activity each day for good health. If your child is not interested in sports, ask him to join you for a jog each morning or assign him the task of taking the dog for a walk after dinner every evening.
Get Five a Day
Five servings per day of fruits and vegetables are good for everyone, including teens. First, your teenager needs the vitamins that fresh produce can provide her. Also, filling up on fruits and veggies will leave less room for fat- and salt-filled junk food. Eating fresh, healthy food can give your teen more energy, which in turn may prompt her to become more physically active and fit, leading to toned muscles.
Add Strength Training
In addition to the 60 minutes of aerobic activity that your child should be getting each day, encourage him to participate in strength-training exercises, such as yoga, Pilates, weight lifting or resistance exercises, at least a few times per week. Installing a pull-up bar or laying down a mat for push-ups and crunches can give your teen the space to work on muscle-toning exercises.
Suggestions
Avoid diets that encourage your teenager to substitute shakes, bars or powders for real food. These will not provide the nutrition that he needs during these vital growing years. Do not restrict your child's calories drastically without the advice and supervision of his physician. Banning certain foods are likely to backfire; instead, encourage moderation when it comes to favorite and potentially unhealthy foods. If your child is having trouble sticking to a weight-loss plan, find out about support groups in your area.
Member Comments