January 31, 2008

10 Steps To Teen Weight Loss







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Teen weight loss is becoming a hot topic, and rightly so with teenage obesity problem on the rise.

There’s no one right answer for teen weight loss, but there’s a lot one can do to help.

1.) Have a talk.
Offer support if the person is concerned about teen weight loss.

2.) Squelch unrealistic images.
Remind the teen that there’s no perfect body and that the correct weight for one person might not be the right weight for another.

3.) Stay away from fad diets.
Help the teen understand that teen weight loss is a commitment. Fad diets are unhealthy and will not foster life long healthy eating habits.

4.) Encourage exercise.
To promote teen weight loss, teens need about 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Encourage team sports or community programs.

5.) Encourage breakfast.
A nutritious breakfast will jump-start anyone’s metabolism and is very important in teen weight loss.

6.) Encourage smart snacks.
Encourage the teen to replace even one bag of chips a day with a healthier snack like:

Fresh fruit or veggies
Low-fat yogurt or pudding
String cheese

7.) Keep an eye on portions.
For teen weight loss, encourage smaller portions and to stop eating when he or she is full.

8.) Pay attention to liquid calories.
Soda has a lot of calories. Encourage water instead which is better for the teen anyway.

9.) Occasional treats are good.
An occasional break from the teen weight loss plan is alright and will help the teen from becoming bored. There should just be moderation.

10.) Set a good example.
Implement healthier habits for the entire family. Singling out one person won’t work for long and eating healthy is good for everyone.

Always be sure to check with your doctor before putting your child on a teen weight loss program.


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January 17, 2008

What You Should Know About Overweight Kids.







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American children are becoming over weight and of those who don’t get help with weight loss for kids, 80% of them will be overweight into adulthood.

We all know that carrying extra weight is not healthy and can lead to all types of medical disorders in adult life. As well, children who are overweight can have self esteem issues.

Weight loss for kids needs to be approached carefully and most children should not be put on severe diet. Weight loss for kids should be handled with a sensible diet and getting them off the couch and moving.

Weight loss for kids is simpler if the child is motivated. Help your child stay motivated in his weight loss by becoming actively involved in the process. Don’t ever talk badly about your child’s appearance and give him praise for a job well done.

Some weight loss for kids tips:

Limit TV: TV doesn’t burn calories.
Healthy Eating: Children should not skip meals or snacks to discourage binge eating and stay away from fast food.
Liquids: Kids need to drink four to six glasses of water each day. Having water before a meal will help them feel fuller
Diet Journal: Weight loss for kids includes keeping a diet journal. Keep track of foods, activities and a weekly measurement of weight.
Be a Good Role Model: Children learn by example so eat healthy and exercise too.

When working on weight loss for kids, let your child have non-diet foods on special occasions. And finally, make sure to check with your pediatrician before beginning any program for weight loss for kids.


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