by Suzanne Rose

Created on: February 27, 2010   Last Updated: April 18, 2010

The life of a teenager can be a challenge indeed.  Add to that a weight problem, and it can go from difficult to near impossible, or at least that’s what many emotion-driven teens will feel.  There is a lot of pressure for kids this age to be skinny, and before a teen starts any effort to lose weight, they should evaluate to make sure that they truly need to shed pounds.  In addition, they should set a realistic and healthy goal weight for themselves.  The size 0 models of the magazines should not epitomize this goal, but instead it should be a healthy weight that is realistic for their frame.  The following are losing weight tips for teens.

1. Eat healthy

Some teenagers seem to live on hamburgers and milkshakes.  Obviously, these are not great foods for losing weight.  To help shed these pounds, try to ditch some of the unhealthy fast foods for more healthful items such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.  Try to cut out calorie-laden fat-filled foods such as pizza, cheeseburger, fries, fried chicken and others.  It can be challenging to eat at school, but many schools do have choices.  Some even have salad bars.  If you cannot find something healthy at your school, then bring a sack lunch instead.

2. Try to cut down on sodas and other sugary drinks

Sometimes we spend so much time thinking about the calories in food that we forget to consider what are in drinks.  If you are having a lot of soda, as many teenagers do, you might be adding a lot of extra calories, which can help keep the weight on.  Try to cut down on these drinks.

3. Be more active

Try to be as active as you can.  Try to ditch sedentary activities for something more active.  You can join a sports team or simply play basketball with the neighborhood kids.  It may even be as simple as walking to a nearby store or making the decision to go up the stairs rather than riding in the elevator.  The more active you can be, the better.

4. Start an exercise routine

There are many great exercises for teens.  Again, just as with the food, make sure that you do not overdo it.  A nice routine of thirty minutes of aerobic exercise most days of the week will help keep you fit and shed those pounds.  You could do anything from running to swimming and more.  Some schools may let you use the track or other facilities.  Depending on your age, you may be able to join a gym, as well.

5. Do not overeat

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