Weight loss for kids is a touchy topic. It’s a polarizing issue with almost no middle ground, but rarely is it cut and dried. With obesity rates ever climbing and adult diseases appearing in younger and younger children, it’s become apparent that these are areas of concern that need to be addressed.
One of the most visible age groups to struggle with their weight would be the teenager. If you have a teenager struggling with weight issues, it may be a discussion that your child doesn’t want to have with you. How can you face this problem without alienating your child?
Weight loss for teens is challenging, as their bodies are constantly growing and changing and height has not yet finished in many cases. An extensive review of your child’s height and weight with their doctor is essential. The most effective weight loss plans for anyone involve a combination of diet, exercise and healthy living and place emphasis on creating a healthy lifestyle change. There are many diet plans that are geared towards teenagers; here are a few of the best.
Jenny Craig The popular weight loss plan has a segment geared specifically for teenagers age 13-17. The weekly check ins with a counselor provide time for guidance and support to deal with issues as they arise. Meals are provided and the plan is personalized to fit the realities of your teen’s daily life.
Ominvore’s Dilemma for Kids Based on the adult book, The Omnivore’s Dilemma, this diet plan walks a teen through eating in a healthier manner. It breaks down the way that we eat into four distinct paths and then discusses the different flaws with each one. Reading this book can help your teen see the problems with today’s food and how to make healthier choices.
Weight Watchers Weight Watchers is one of the most well known and respected weight loss plans around. The Eat, Move, Play plan is geared to families and it breaks down the mystery of weight loss for children, presenting it in 5 simple rules. These rules include less TV/computer time, more fruits and vegetables, and try to get at least an hour of physical activity every day.
Camp Shane Arguably the most well known weight loss camp, this NY state camp is a fun, safe and effective environment for heavy teens to get the help that they need to lose weight. Combining crafts, sports, performing arts and cognitive behavior therapy, the overnight camp is a great place for a teen to begin a weight loss journey.
Gotti Diet The name alone may make you hesitant, but if you can get past it, this diet plan is a sound way to encourage your child to develop a healthier lifestyle. Frank Gotti, the grandson of the legendary Mafia boss Frank Gotti, wrote a book to appeal to teenagers. In it, he encourages teens to eat healthier, exercise and make wise choices. The name may be disconcerting, but the plan is a solid one.
Before beginning any weight loss plan, be certain to speak with your child’s doctor for guidance. Review the standards of the weight loss plan with your child, and be certain that any one you choose advocates a slow, sensible weight loss of 1-2 pounds per week, with an emphasis on making a healthy lifestyle choice.