Healthy eating is a better path than dieting for teens, points out nutritionist Anne Collins. Most teens will be able to lose weight simply by reforming some of their bad food habits so they are putting better-quality food into their bodies in smaller amounts. A shift in the way you view food and consume it can help you lose weight. Asking a friend to be your partner in weight loss can give you the support you need to eat more healthfully in a sea of daily junk food temptation.
Pack a Lunch
Instead of relying on your school cafeteria for nourishment, pack your own lunch with healthier choices. Survey the scene in your cafeteria. Choices are usually pizza, hamburgers, corn dogs and french fries, all of which have plenty of fat and calories but maybe not so much nutritional value. Instead, bring along a lunch of lean turkey on whole wheat, an apple and a cup of yogurt. You'll get a healthy meal that keeps you feeling fuller longer and will keep your weight loss on track.
Drink Water
Avoid the vending machines at your school and the soda at your favorite pizza place. Some sodas have as many as 200 calories per can. Water has zero calories and is cheaper for a limited teen budget. Carry a water bottle with you in your backpack, or order a glass of water with a lemon wedge when out with friends to stay hydrated and knock out excess liquid calories.
Choose Better Snacks
There's always a friend on hand with a chocolate bar or candy to share, and you might feel your resolve weaken in the afternoon slump when you feel hungry and tired. Keep healthy snacks with you at all times so you can make better choices. A handful of nuts is around 150 calories and will give you extra fiber to help you stay full. Low-calorie protein bars can give you a quick boost and often taste like more decadent chocolate bars.
Think Physical Fitness
Adding physical activity to your diet plan can help you drop the weight faster, says education.com. Luckily, as a teen you have plenty of opportunities to sneak in exercise. Join a sports team at school, or go for a walk with your friends next time they want to hang out. Ride your bike to school instead of driving or getting a ride, and make an effort participate fully in physical education.
Get a Diet Buddy
While you might feel embarrassed that you need to lose weight, a supportive friend can help encourage you and feel better about yourself. Ask a friend to be your diet buddy so you feel accountable to someone at school and while exercising. She can watch out for you, share good recipes and help you make better choices when snacking.
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