Underweight/Overweight: Affecting Your Mind And body / Question
Published: July 17, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm an athlete but overweight at the same time, I'm 167.5 tall and weight about 80 kilograms. Which means I'm overweight with about 15 kilograms - although I don't look that fat. I don't eat meat, chicken, pasta and rice. I like sugary stuff! My trainings are regular in summer and a bit disturbed in winter due to my studies. My period is not regular, either. I feel so depressed by gaining weight very fast; not like normal people. Is there something wrong with me?
Signed: Overweight Athlete
Dear Overweight Athlete,
As you probably know, the best way for you to lose weight is by eating healthy and getting regular exercise. Being an athlete is a good start, but as you say yourself, your diet is not very balanced. It is important that you eat a balanced diet, not just the "sugary stuff." You might also try finding some way of getting regular exercise in winter. Even if you are not practicing for a sport, you can develop an exercise routine that keeps your body in shape without taking too much time away from your studies. We suggest you speak to your school nurse, a doctor, or even your coach about how to improve your diet and maintain good exercise habits all year round.
You do not say how old you are, but TeenHealthFX wants you to know that it takes a long time for a girl's period to develop a regular schedule. It may be that your period just has not found a rhythm yet. On the other hand, many things can disturb your cycle, including an unhealthy diet and strenuous or inconsistent exercise patterns. If you are concerned about the regularity of your period, you might want to speak with a doctor.
Our biggest concern is that you feel you are gaining weight faster than "normal people." If this is true, we strongly suggest that you consult a doctor so you can find out if there is something causing this other than your diet. If you do not have a doctor and you live in Northern New Jersey, call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at (973) 971.6475. If you live elsewhere, get in touch with your local adolescent health center or clinic.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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