Anyone who has raised a teenager knows how difficult that can be. But we all can imagine that if a teenager is overweight or obese, there are more problems to solve than the usual teen angst. Being obese can be a very isolating experience, and losing weight can be difficult for anyone, particularly for a teenager.
Nearly one-third of teenage girls between the ages of 12 and 17 are overweight or obese, and many of them are likely to become obese adults. Studies show that intervention programs can help these girls achieve long-term success managing their weight and also learn new habits that will hopefully carry over into their adult life.
A new study funded by the National Institutes for Health and conducted by Kaiser Permanente reported the first long-term results from a weight management program designed specifically for teenage girls. The girls started out with an average weight in the 190 pound range, and an average body mass index in the 97th percentile, which by CDC standards is considered to be obese.
At the end of the program, the girls gained less weight than those who weren’t in the program, and they reduced their overall body mass index, improved their self-image and developed healthier lifestyle habits over the girls who had “usual care.”
If you were going to plan an intervention program for teenagers in your club, what would you need to do to get similar results? Ideally, you would want to work in cooperation with primary care providers, many of whom would be happy to have a great program where they could refer their patients and their parents.
Speaking of parents, it is extremely important to have the parents involved, although separately from the teens. In my experience, especially with teenagers, parents want their children to change their lifestyle habits, but the children need to want change for themselves. The parents typically have very good intentions, but need just as much nutrition education as the kids.
Other elements of a good program include asking the teens to keep food and activity diaries, along with charting their weight. Peer meetings are essential, led by a counselor or other facilitator. At each meeting, the teens can discuss their journals and their progress.
The program should focus on cutting down portion sizes and watching what types of foods the teens are eating, including the reduction of fast food and sweetened beverages in their diets. Doctors suggest that teens have more meals with their families, instead of on the go or with friends. They should also be encouraged to exercise at least five days a week for 30 to 60 minutes to complete any program.
To engage teens, develop programs specifically set for them, just like you would your seniors. Make their programs fun and engaging, with positive reinforcement that can motivate teens. Get outside the box — what sort of programs do you believe would be the most beneficial to teens, male or female?
Judith Samuels, M.A. is a certified nutrition and wellness consultant and master personal trainer at Sport&Health Clubs in the Washington D.C. Metro Area. She can be reached via e-mail at judi@judisamuels.com.
