In addition to working with over 100 teenagers for her book Weight Loss Confidential, Anne M. Fletcher, M.S., R.D., also interviewed parents for help and advice on teen weight loss. In speaking with parents of overweight children, Fletcher found

"First, they make it clear that kids need to know that they're loved unconditionally, regardless of their weight. Both the parents and the teens also stress that the initiative for weight loss has to come from the teen–if the teen's not ready or isn't motivated, nagging, preaching, and complaining will only backfire... Parents also emphasized the importance of providing healthful foods, not having a lot of high-calorie foods around, and being role models for healthy eating and exercise. Once the teen makes a decision to slim down, parents stressed the need for providing them lots of support and praise, no matter how small the changes are."

Read a full review of Weight Loss Confidential.

Labels: parenting, tips, weight_loss