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By Mary Hartley, RD
Director of Nutrition

How can a young teen lose weight in a healthy way?
Asked by anonymous on Sep 21, 2008 in Family & Pregnancy



I am 13 and I weigh 170 lbs. According to my doctor, I should weigh 123 lbs.  How can I lose 43 lbs by May 1st, 7 months from now? I am embarrassed by the way people look at me now.


Answer

If your doctor says you have reached your adult height, then you can lose up to 8 pounds a month.  Research shows that these solutions work best for teens:

  • Engage in vigorous physical activity for at least 60 minutes a day
  • Eat 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables everyday
  • Choose small to moderate food portions
  • Eat breakfast everyday
  • Eat regular family meals
  • Avoid sugary beverages, such as soda and fruit drinks
  • Limit TV and “screen” time to 2 hours/day

If you choose to count calories, aim for 1800 a day. Since teen weight loss is a family affair, you and your parents should read Weight Loss Confidential: How Teens Lose Weight and Keep It Off – and What They Wish Their Parents Knew by Anne M. Fletcher. 



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