Weight loss for teens is often a matter of peer pressure. For better or worse, Britney Spears and Hannah Montana are held up as models to aspire to. However, not everyone is meant to be a size 0. How can you tell if your teen is losing too much weight? And what should you do to help them?
1. Consider honestly whether your teen is really overweight to begin with. As a parent, you may have blinders on, but really try to see him or her objectively. Also consider what kinds of food your teen eats. If he or she seems to be eating plenty of whole grains, protein, fruits and veggies, then all is probably well. However, if his or her idea of a balanced diet is a Twinkie in each hand, then you should probably intervene.
Likewise, if the only exercise your teen gets is using the joy stick on a video game, then your teen needs to get moving. On the other hand, if he or she seems obsessed with exercising to the point of injuries and constant exhaustion, then there may be an eating disorder or self-esteem issue looming.
2. Consider your teen’s mood. Is he or she constantly cranky and irritable? Is he or she constantly checking the scale or talking about losing weight? Then he or she is probably not eating enough of the right foods. Your teen may be developing an eating disorder.
3. Consider your teen’s social life. Does he or she seem basically happy? Are there plenty of friends around? Or does your teen seem withdrawn, holing up in the bedroom for hours and hours? If your teen seems to be drawing away from the world, he or she may begin using his or her weight as an excuse to do so.
To help your teen through these perilous waters, it is important for you to show you care. Follow these steps:
1. Don’t nag. If you constantly harp on your teen about what he or she is eating or doing, that will only make the matter worse.
2. Be a role model. Eat proper food yourself and your teen will likely follow. If junk food is a problem, don’t buy it. Get exercise and invite your teen along. Not only is this a good example, it also gives you some good one-on-one time. Teens are more likely to open up to you if you are sharing an activity.
3. Offer good counsel, when it is sought. If your teen starts talking about weight, use the opportunity to point out that few people are meant to be stick thin. Show them that no one really knows what size another person wears. Explain that eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia can lead to health problems years in the future. But only talk about these matters when the subject comes up.
4. Seek medical help if warranted. If you really think your teen is either over- or underweight, make an appointment with his or her doctor. The doctor will be able to reassure both of you and offer advice on healthy living.
5. Value your teen. No matter what the scale says, teens need to know they are loved and appreciated. Take some time to get to know your teen. Let him or her know that you care and really love them. That reassurance will go a long way.
Weight loss for teens is often a matter of self esteem. By following these tips, you will be helping them mature into happy, healthy adults.
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