Do I need to do anything differently to lose weight as a teenager?

by Mariana Bozesan

The rules for a healthy diet apply at all stages of life. Some diets recommend that you don't go on them unless you are over 18 because they deprive your body of nutrients that your body needs as it is developing. We believe you should not go on that type of diet at any time in your life. When you are a teenager it is a great time to establish healthy eating habits that will stay with you for the rest of your life. If you learn to eat an alkalizing diet now you will avoid many of the common health problem that develop later in life. If you are overweight now your body is already out of balance. When you bring it into balance the excess weight will come off naturally.

Each time you eat, look at your plate. Be sure you are eating 70% vegetables and not more than 30% meats, dairy, deserts and refined carbohydrates such as white bread. As a teenager you are probably going to fast food places with your friends. When you do, order the salads that are being offered more and more. Avoid sodas, particularly diet sodas which may contain dangerous and carcinogenic chemicals. Most places have bottled water, which is a much healthier alternative. And when you do give in and eat that burger or pizza, have an extra glass of green drink plus supplemental Vitamin C, Vitamin E and an antioxidant such as grape seeds. These will help offset the acid forming properties of that indulgence.