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Teenage girls growing up today
are bombarded about weight, diets, body image, and how they
look from a very young age. The messages are constant, contradictory
and confusing. On the one hand we are constantly being told
: " you can't be too thin," " don't eat too
much," " watch the fat," "exercise."
On the other hand our mothers, teachers, and doctors are concerned
that we might be too thin. So what's the scoop? How to find
the balance?
I think that is the million dollar
question of the twenty first century. It is very hard not
to be influenced by all the fashion models and movie stars
we see that are seriously underweight. It is also hard to
be immune to all the ads for fast food that is high in fat
and calories, but looks so yummy.
What we need to start doing is
turning inward, focusing on what we want, what we think, who
we are. One way to start becoming centered, and inner directed
is by turning of the TV. That is no joke, but perhaps not
too realistic. Another way is to check with ourselves why
we are doing what we are doing. I am talking about self-monitoring
on an every day sort of basis. The next time you say to yourself-"I
hate my thighs," or "I am too fat"-check again
to make sure it is you talking, and not perhaps the supermodel,
the movie star, or your friends. What do you really think?
How do you really feel?
While it is good to keep on eye
on healthful eating, eating nutritious meals and snacks, there
is nothing wrong with occasionally eating out, or having a
high fat-high calorie treat. It is good to exercise, but this
too can be done excessively to the exclusion of anything else.
Maintaining a balance is the key. Some nutrition, some exercise,
and a lot of good humor.
Recent studies show that most
teenage girls are unhappy about the way they look, and are
currently dieting. Anorexia is a life threatening illness
that is preying on more and more adolescent girls. It is important
for parents, but particularly mothers to be aware of this.
We need to remember that they way we relate to food affects
our children, particularly our teenage daughters. If in fact
you have concerns about your daughters weight loss, or food
behaviors, do not wait until your daughter agrees, and asks
for help.
It is your responsibility as
a parent to turn for help, even if your daughter fights you
on this. Talk your physician, or a health care provider with
expertise in eating disorders, or adolescence. DO NOT WAIT!!!
Remember-eating disorders are rampant
and can be life threatening. However, there are solutions and
help. Do not try to solve it all yourself.
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