Answers to some questions you might have...
Q: I'd like to lose weight, but where do I start?
A: The best place to start is with a visit to the doctor for professional advice! It might be a matter of maintaining your current weight while your body grows taller.
Q: How do I know how much is too much to eat?
A: Try to eat slowly and listen to your body. If you eat too fast your brain won't have enough time to tell your body it's full and you'll end up overeating and feeling sleepy instead of energized.
Q: What are good goals to start with?
A: Use your own healthy life goals, not just diet goals. Although some diets and eating habits can help kids lose weight fast, taking weight off more slowly over a longer time is healthier and better for everyone, especially for someone who is still growing.
Q: How Do I Help Myself Meet My Goals?
A: Use your Awareness, Attention and Attitude!
- Awareness – ask and be aware of what your choices are in each situation, so you can make the best one for you. There may be options you had not thought of!
- Attention – pay attention to what and how much you are eating because it is easy to eat too much as a habit when you are really hungry. When you are not focused on eating, for example while watching television, often you eat more than you need to.
- Attitude – how you eat and why you eat are as important as what you eat. Notice your eating attitude. Are you feeling bad for sneaking a snack, eating in a rush or because you are upset? Or, are you feeling good about your food, eating slowly, and enjoying it?
Q: If I'm eating fast food, what are the best choices?
A: Grilled chicken sandwich, salads with low calorie, fat free dressings, single hamburger (no super sizing). Try to avoid fried chicken, large and jumbo size fries, onion rings.
Q: Is sugar really that bad (because it sure tastes good)!
A: Foods that are high in sugar (cookies, cake, candy, ice cream, and some fruit juices) are also high in calories and low in the good nutrients. As a result, eating a lot of sweets can make you gain weight.