The Impact of Weight
Research shows that 89% of overweight or obese adolescents become obese adults.
Weight issues can have significant medical effects, including many forms of cancer, diabetes, asthma, coronary heart disease, and stroke. Of course, overweight is more than just physical. Many families recognize their child’s unhappiness, negative outlook, and low self-esteem as connected to overweight or obesity.
Losing less than just 10% of one’s body weight can yield positive health effects. So, if your child weighs 180 lbs., losing just 18 lbs. can have significant physical and emotional benefits. This helps explain the popularity of teen diets, teen fitness programs, and traditional weight loss camps and fat camps, despite the fact that the results are almost always temporary.
Body Mass Index»
Use the BMI Calculator, the measure used by pediatricians, to assess weight issues and receive recommendations.
Weight Impact »
Learn how weight affects a person’s physical and emotional health with this simple illustration.
