While both adults and teens name skim milk as their most popular reduced fat food, teens are much more likely to eat fat reduced snacks, chips, cakes and other baked goods and candy than adults. Although only about one out of four teens claim to be dieting, almost half say they are making a serious effort to control their weight. Nutrition experts agree that diets don't work. Instead, lifelong healthy habits are recommended. These include healthy eating and physical activity.
Teens are more likely to include exercise in their weight control plans than adults.
Be a good role model-exercise and eat a healthy diet. Teens can help plan family meals, prepare shopping lists and shop for food. They can also help prepare family meals. Parents can encourage physical activity. Don't assume that teens are getting all the exercise they need at school.