Adolescents often become extremely concerned about their bodies and their weight, which is understandable since dramatic physical changes are occurring. These concerns are compounded by unrealistic media images of the ideal teen body. In part because of these stresses, eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, are increasing among teenage girls and young women.¹

The National Center for Health Statistics reports that about 17 out of 100 adolescents ages 12 to 19 in the United States are overweight.² Overweight kids are often shunned by their peers and may develop low self-esteem.

Body mass index (BMI) is a number based on a person's weight and height. BMI provides a way to estimate the effect of weight on health.

In your home, you can promote healthy eating and exercise as lifelong pursuits. Setting up too many rules can lead to useless conflict. Modeling good eating and exercise habits may be one of the best ways to promote a healthy lifestyle. You can involve your children in making healthy meals, for example.

Here are some healthy eating tips:

• Eat the recommended number of servings from the different food groups each day.
• Limit foods that contain oils, fats, and sweets.
• Eat a variety of foods.
• Drink fat-free or low-fat milk. Drink water instead of calorie-laden soda pop.
• Eat more vegetables, fruits, and grains.
• Limit the amount of salt and sugar you add to your food. Avoid eating cereals with added sugar. Eat less candy, cookies, and pies.

Dieting during the teen years requires special attention. Most doctors recommend that overweight teens increase physical exercise, change unhealthy eating behaviors, and let growth catch up to weight.

For more information on eating habits, see the topics Weight Management, Healthy Eating for Children, and Dietary Guidelines for Americans—2005. For information on eating disorders, see the topics Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, and Bulimia Nervosa.