$Unique_ID{BRK01576}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Teenage Obesity}
$Subject{weight gain teenager}
$Volume{Q-26}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Teenage Obesity


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QUESTION:  My teenage daughter has always been very lovely, but now she is
adding more pounds than look good on her.  It may only be a stage, but I am
concerned.  Do you think it is necessary to start her on a diet now, before it
gets out of hand?

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ANSWER:  That depends on your teenager's height, weight, and general physical
condition.  Much has been made of teenaged girls' unhealthy preoccupation with
weight and eating, which too often results in psychological problems, eating
disorders and resulting physical effects.  However, many experts believe that
our psychologically "healthy" teens may be heavier than they should be, a
trend that has taken shape over the last 20 years and that seems to be growing
instead of diminishing, despite all the emphasis on fitness and healthy eating
habits.  In fact, obesity in adolescents has increased 39 percent and affected
22 percent of the 12 to 17 year olds in this country over the last 15 to 20
years.
     Why is this important?  We all know that we feel better, both physically
and psychologically, when we are the right weight.  But overweight teenagers
are especially vulnerable to the physical and emotional side effects of extra
body fat, and the teen years are often a hard time to lose weight, because of
the emotional growing up that takes so much energy and causes so much stress
in the teen and his family.  Also, teens who are overweight are much more
likely to have weight problems as adults--more so than the overweight child.
     Overweight teenagers are often caught in a distressing cycle of
overeating, inactivity, social isolation, depression and parental conflict.
The most effective intervention may come from a trusted teacher or adult
friend, who is seen as an ally rather than a threat.  Because of their
adolescent bodies, teenagers have a special set of nutritional requirements
that should be met while attempting weight loss.  The best weight loss program
(and the one that is most effective in the long run) is one that includes
comprehensive assessment to identify the emotional and physical components of
the problem.  The program should emphasize well-balanced nutrition, physical
activity, psychological and family support, and provide long-term follow-up
care.  Such a program is not easy to find, but your family doctor should be
able to get you started.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
