From a parenting point of view of teen health, statistics related to weight loss in recent years have thrown up some harsh realities. Studies by a single wellness institution alone revealed that 4 percent children were overweight in 1982. The corresponding figures for the year 1994 and 2001 were 16 percent and 33 percent respectively. The trend is evident.

The recent figures have grown eight times over a period of nineteen years. Regardless of the causes for this rapid rise, it is evident that teen obesity is on the rise.

There is a perceivable difference in the weight loss programs for teens compared to adults. The resultant risk causes even health professionals to treat the matter with caution.

The basic challenge with any weight loss diet for teens is the fact that they are still in the growing stage and any reduction in their intake of food will significantly affect their physical development. It is thus critical that any teen weight loss program should give due consideration to the nutritional requirements.

A basic understanding of the principles of eating healthy is critical for teens. Eating too little will endanger teen health while over eating will result in being overweight. It would be advisable to avoid unsaturated fats as a first step in trying to achieve a healthy balance. Fried foods like French fries, crumb fried chicken and burgers are some examples of such foods. Other foods such as confectionaries, cakes, butter, cream, cakes and pies that are rich in fat and sugar should be consumed in moderation.

A healthy weight loss plan will always focus on the two important aspects of a combination of the right diet with regular exercise.  Diet pills are fraught with danger for teen health and should be avoided.

It is important to understand that there are no short cuts and no magic cures for obesity. A diet and exercise routine requires a high level of constant motivation and a focus on the objective of weight loss. Exercise is considered a very tedious task by most teens and dieting is a daunting proposition as well.

As parents it is important to understand that support from all members of the family is critical. It is essential to help them with their motivation as well as in overcoming the urge to eat by sharing the same food. Physical activity should be encouraged and alternative sports can be suggested if exercise is considered dull. Further, educating them about the dangers of certain foods and how to read food labels will take care of their diet when they are out of the house.

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