Underweight/Overweight: Affecting Your Mind And body / Question
Published: March 5, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am a size 7/8, 5'2, 140lbs, and I think I'm Fat. I try to diet but it doesn't work well. Actually it doesn't start, I diet for one day and can't keep going. I exercise (I walk a mile each day since I have severe Asthma and can't do anything strenuous) Am I fat? Most people don't think I am. My boyfriend says I'm beautiful and so do my friends, but I can't bring myself to believe it. On top of it all I'm 5'2, 140, a 7/8 and a 36 c/d so I'm miserable, any suggestions?
Signed: See Myself As Fat
Dear See Myself As Fat,
Most people would agree that diets are very hard to start and maintain. The problem with many of these diets is that they are hard to follow and not always the healthiest, especially for a growing teenager. The best way to maintain a reasonable weight is to eat healthy and get regular exercise. Your doctor can help you develop a eating program that can meet your nutritional needs as well as help you maintain a healthy weight.
Regular exercise does not have to include strenuous activities. Walking a mile every day is very good. You may also want to speak to your doctor about your asthma in more detail. It may be possible for you to control your asthma better so that you can exercise more vigorously. There are professional and Olympic athletes with asthma.
TeenHealthFX is concerned because you say the problem is making you "miserable". Despite reassurances from your boyfriend and your friends, something seems to be preventing you from seeing the beauty they see. Many people believe that losing weight is the key to being happy with themselves and their body. This simply is not true. Accepting yourself for who you are is the short cut to happiness. If you continue to be dissatisfied with your body and are miserable, you may need to speak with a counselor. Talk to your doctor about your concerns and get help if necessary.
If you need a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center For Health at 973.889.6350 for an appointment.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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