Diet For Teenagers - Why Parents Should Worry

No Quick Fix

To begin any diet for teenagers, they must realize that there is no magic bullet that will solve their weight problem. There are some methods that will have them losing weight quickly, but establishing healthy long term lifestyle habits is the only way to ensure the weight stays off.

As a parent you should communicate with your teenager and let them know that you'll be there to support them along the way, because the process could take weeks or months. Avoiding fad dieting, diet pills, and gimmicks while setting new habits will increase their chances of success.

Emotional Hazards

Overweight teens are subjected to media that represent overweight people in a negative light constantly. Television and movies often use overweight people as targets for the brunt of their jokes and gags. At school your teenager may be bullied or called names for their appearance as well, causing them anxiety, depression, and feelings of shame or guilt.

All of these feelings can create a cycle where your teenager may eat to repress their feelings in an attempt to find some form of safety. It may be done unconsciously, and if they have another way to express themselves and find security it may help them release the frustration. Be emotionally supportive while they work towards their goal of losing weight.

Physical Dangers

In addition to the possibility of being bullied or harassed by fellow students, their own bodies could become a danger to them if ignored. Arthritis, asthma, sleep apnea, and gallstones are a few of the short term risks of obesity. Bone deformations in the legs can occur if your teenager is extremely overweight, because the leg bones are still developing and may be strained to contort unnaturally by excess weight.

The long term risks are even more concerning. Diabetes, heart disease, and stroke are known to be linked to obesity and unhealthy eating habits. With only a few changes in diet and exercise you can help your teenager lose weight and not worry about the long term health risks of obesity.

Decision

Help your teenager come to make their own decision to lose weight. You can support them, but the responsibility is ultimately theirs. You can help them by being an example of healthy eating and exercise habits. By doing something you're showing them you care and giving them examples of what they can do to make a difference in their own lives.

Don't underestimate the power of leading by example, because teens are looking for role models regardless of their need for independence. They will still be looking to you for support.

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