Healthy Ways Of Losing And Gaining Weight / Question
Published: September 14, 2000
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am 15 years old, going on 16. I am about 5'5" and weigh 160 lbs. I have a great boyfriend and great friends but I know that I need to lose weight. I know that I will never be skinny because my whole family is on the "larger side". Not fat, but not skinny either. I try hard to eat right, eliminate soda, cut out eating in-between meal snacks, but it doesn't seem to work. I seem to lose a couple of pounds but that is about it, and it always comes back. I try to exercise but I never seem to have enough time. So, I have 2 questions. Am I overweight? What can I do to loose weight that will fit into my busy schedule?
Signed: Dieting On A Busy Schedule
Dear Dieting On A Busy Schedule,
TeenHealthFX does not think you are overweight. Many teens feel that losing weight is the key to happiness, and can even feel like it is what you are suppose to be doing. It is not! We are glad to hear that you know what type of body build you have and also that it is not fat. Every person is different and it is impossible to tell what weight your body is set to be at.
You are on the right track with "Eating Healthy". Dieting is not the answer. As a teenager, your body is still growing and needs proper nutrients, that you can often times deprive yourself of on fad diets. The best way to maintain a healthy weight is to eat right and exercise. You mentioned that you have a busy schedule and do not exercise. It is important that you make time to exercise.
A good exercise program consists of aerobic training 3-4 times a week and strength training 3-4 times per week. Exercise can be fun and you can incorporate it into your busy schedule. For instance, if you and your boyfriend want to spend time with each other, take a long walk. Use the stairs more often. Make a conscious effort to exercise; this will help your body to slim down. By eating right and exercising your body will maintain a weight that is right for you. It may not seem like the "ideal" number, but it is what your body is comfortable at.
Your weight is a sensitive subject. Be confident with who you are and your weight will follow.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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