When it comes to a diet and exercise program for teens, the key is in moderation support. Chances are your teen knows they are overweight and is burdened by more than just the extra pounds. Your first step should be to talk to your teen openly. Discuss the health risks associated with being overweight and try to help them understand that they really do have a choice. There is so much conflicting information for teens that they often do not know where to start. Skirting the issue or denying that it exists isn’t going to save your teens feelings because they know the truth. Teen weight loss can be achieved as long as parents and teens are ready to be honest and accept responsible for their actions. Talk with your teen and discuss what they would like to see happen. Then, make a plan of action. Following is a 10-Step Program parents and teens can use to help their child lose weight.
- Talk about the problem. (as discussed above)
- Accept responsibility. When you and your teen can see where conscious choices lead to the problem, you can regain control.
- Eradicate words like fat or thin. You and your teen should talk in terms of healthy and set realistic goals. Try to debunk the effects that the media has on your teen so they are able to remain realistic and feel pride for their own successes.
- Don’t allow your teen weight loss to include any quick or drastic diets, pills, supplements, or strategies. Help your teen understand that ‘quick’ teen weight loss is unhealthy, dangerous, and temporary.
- Look for teen fitness camps that will focus on healthy habits and exercise. These will jumpstart your teen’s weight loss and help them realize their long-term goals.
- Take classes, read books, cruise the internet for nutrition and health information. The more you know, the more changes the entire family can make.
- Set short term and long-term goals. Use a reward system. For instance, set up a shopping trip for your teenager if they stick to their diet, exercise or experience some weight loss.
- Resist the urge to be couch potatoes. Find creative and fun ways to incorporate at least an hours worth of activity in your teen’s routine.
- Remain supportive at all times. Recognize the emotional triggers to weight gain and over eating and help your teen devise a new plan with new habits.
- Above all else…remain positive. Reinforce your teen’s weight loss plan with constant support and act like a good example. In order to save your child from the effects of being overweight, they need to be led by example in the home.
Often, families don’t talk about weight problems. When you can bring the issue to the forefront and discuss healthy options and solutions, your teen will be empowered to lose weight. While it may look like you are simple changing your teen’s outward appearance, the truth is you are changing their life in much more meaningful ways.
