Genesee County Health Department

Better Life Through Better Health

American children are more overweight than ever. According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in five children (6-17 years old) is overweight. Adolescence is a time of psychological change. This must be kept in mind as advice is given. Adolescents constantly compare their weight, height, and sexual development to others. Self-esteem may be fragile at this time because of these changes. Consequently, no other age group is as sensitive to criticism. They often associate success, happiness, and popularity with their body type. All of these natural fears are complicated by being overweight.

Parents may want to help children by putting them on restrictive diets. What they may not know is that weight-loss diets are often harmful to adolescents. Restrictive diets may deprive them of nutrients needed for bone and muscle growth, and for sexual development. "Special" diets are not necessarily the answer, either. However there are many healthier techniques that can be used. Experts recommend increasing exercise and making gradual changes in food habits. Small changes are more realistic than large ones, and success, with one change makes the next change more likely. Small changes, one at a time can add up to healthy habits which last a lifetime.

Explain to your child that body size is not entirely within their control. Adolescence is a time of rapid growth, second only to the period following birth. The goal should be to stop gaining weight. A focus can be placed on growing into their current weight. Healthy eating, an active lifestyle, smart choices are good advice during these years and can help assure a healthy weight.

Experts recommend increasing exercise and making gradual changes in food habits. Small changes are more realistic than large ones, and success with one change makes the next change more likely. Small changes, one at a time can add up to healthy habits which last a lifetime.