One of the scariest things facing our kids today revolves around their health. Each year more and more teens are facing obesity, diabetes and overall poor health prospects for their future. As a parent you have the power to instill better eating habits and to do this you don’t have to be a nutrition expert. All you need to know are basic steps they can take to ensure their future is bright and worry-free.

One of the most common issues you may have to deal with when it comes to your teen is the concept of dieting. From the media to peer pressure, more teen girls (and guys) are feeling the squeeze to slim down. Often they turn to unhealthy means such as starvation, yo-yo dieting, bingeing and purging or other negative eating habits. If you suspect that your teen is struggling with their weight, take the time to talk to them about their options for healthy weight loss. A strong support system will allow your teen to open up and discuss his/her feelings. Work with your teen to set small goals, such as losing 3-5 pounds. Never start with a high goal number. Taking baby steps will increase the chances for reaching those goals. To hit the point home that their effort to lose weight should be healthy, take the time to do research online with your teen to educate them about how harmful it is to binge and purge, starve, or participate in yo-yo diets. When they see the consequences the less likely they will be to want to experience it for themselves.

Taking fast food out of their daily eating regimen can do wonders for avoiding all kinds of poor eating habits. Slowly phase out their intake of fast food by purchasing fresh food items and making sure they have a homemade lunch to take to school. Include their favorite healthy foods to further encourage them and have them carry bottled water to school and provide it at home. Stop buying sodas, energy drinks and other sugary, caffeinated beverages.

Breakfast is still the most important meal of the day so arrange your teen’s morning schedule so he/she has plenty of time to eat breakfast or prepare a quick meal on the go for your teen to reach for as he/she rushes out. Try to switch up their breakfast meals from time to time so your teen doesn’t get bored and decide to skip out. When packing your teen’s lunch and cooking dinner be sure to serve decent portions. Teach your teen how to practice portion control. Make sure they don’t have too many second or third helpings. Instead, put the leftovers in containers and have them eat it for lunch or have it for dinner again.

Being a healthy teen involves more than just eating right. Exercise has got to be a part of the equation as well. Stick to your support system and make time to work out with your teen. Walk briskly around your neighborhood together a few times or week or go to the gym and workout together. The buddy system will motivate your teen and allow you to show your full support in helping them get healthy and stay healthy.

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