Help for myself and my 170 pound 17 year old daughter

lbandkids

My daughter just called me from school, crying, because she had her health assessment and found out she weighed 170 pounds. We've noticed she has been putting on weight and have been trying to carefully guide her in the right direction but it's been difficult when I really don't know what I am doing (ie. how to cook for her, pack balanced lunches, snacks for before or after volleyball practice etc.). I also struggle with my weight so I can say that I haven't exactly set a good example for her. On the other hand, we have to be careful what we say/do because we're afraid we'll push her in the other direction (her older sister struggles with an eating disorder). Any suggestions? I don't want to push too much on her too fast. Also, can anyone give me some guidance on what/how to cook for a healthier family in general? I've done some searching on Google and can't find a lot to help me get started with what to have in the house and what/how to cook.

youngcaseyr

As someone who has struggled with eating disorders and weight gain as a teen, I can sympathize and I remember how hard it was to know if what you're doing was helping or hurting. For me, the biggest catalyst for my weight loss and adopting a healthier lifestyle was finding an activity that I enjoyed, and healthier eating followed. Depending on the person, sometimes eating healthier will lead to feeling better and having more energy and a desire to walk, run, swim, do yoga, go to the gym, etc, and sometimes starting an exercise regimen first will "inspire" a person to also start eating more healthy or eat in a way that will facilitate weight loss. It's different for everyone, so perhaps you can ask her how she wants to start or what combination of healthy eating and exercise she thinks she can handle at first. It can be overwhelming but there are resources available online, and some insurance may cover a consultation with a dietician (don't quote me on that though).

glendalunn

I am also parent to a daughter who just turned 18. Thankfully she doesn't have a weight problem, although started to gain some weight after stopping dancing and changing her medications. The biggest thing I learnt was that the change needs to come from within them. I generally will offer advice when she is seeking it on nutrition mostly but also find that if I am constantly mentioning it she rejects my advice and sometimes eats more! She has recently decided to join Crossfit and the drive to exercise is strong and she is doing really well. So, be gentle and I think you are on the right track with wanting to set an example and change what the family eats. I also started exercising 6 months ago which creates a certain atmosphere in the home, so could you start something and encourage your daughter to join you. My main exercise is water aerobics which is great for when you are really unfit as it gets you moving without the stress on your body. Good luck xxx

jaxsmama123

Maybe suggest cooking healthy meals together, or going for walks together, or going to a gym together or even doing yoga. Try and include fresh vegetables, fruit, lean meats, lower fat dairy products like yogurt or cottage cheeses and avoid having chips and sweets (my downfalls) in the household for the most part. Also cutting out juices and pop and consuming mainly water may help as well. (Now, I do enjoy a good snack/cheat meal now & again, so don't deprive yourselves)

I was an overweight teenager until about 17 and my mom was opposite of supportive, she would make comments about my weight and point it out in front of others (I am unsure what she was hoping to accomplish by that), and it still takes a toll on me, even though we have a good relationship now. Anyway, I know if you get involved and set a good example, she may follow suit and slowly she may pick up healthier habits that could stick for life.

Hope this helps a bit & good luck