Here are a few ways that parents can help.
Many parents worry because teens are dieting all the time or even showing signs of eating disorders.
Other parents may needlessly worry because their children aren't stick-thin. But some parents may indeed have reason to be concerned. Federal studies have documented an increase in the percentage of children who are significantly overweight, a factor that could adversely affect their health. This is the hard part. Parents can set a good example by eating healthy low-fat meals and exercising every day, but they can't make their children do the same.