How to Lose Weight in Two Days for Teenagers

According to surveys conducted by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), American obesity rates have doubled for adults and tripled for children and adolescents between 1980 and 2008. Overweight teenagers bear an especially large burden. They are at higher-than-usual risk for depression, social isolation and bad self-esteem, not to mention eating disorders. CDC found that in 2005, 12.3 percent of high school students had gone for a day or more without eating in order to lose weight in the 30 days prior to being surveyed, and 4.5 percent had vomited or taken laxatives. You can lose a little weight in two days by eating only fruits and vegetables, which have lots of fiber and few calories, and drinking only water. However, there are healthier ways for teenagers to lose weight, chief among them the adoption of a healthier lifestyle.

Instructions

• 1

  Learn how to make your own healthy salad dressings, and make exciting fresh vegetable concoctions.

  Overhaul your eating habits. Nix the cafeteria meals, vending machine fare and after-school convenience store runs. Instead of snacking on chips or cookies, choose fruits or vegetables. Bring your own lunch to school instead of eating hot lunches. Switch out sodas for water, juice or unsweetened tea. If you must eat at fast food restaurants, make healthy choices. Avoid anything fried or sugary, skip the mayo and try a salad.

• 2

  If you're hungry, replace chips and crackers with carrot sticks or baby carrots.

  Don't hang out in the kitchen after school. Find another place to do your homework and read. Don't graze during homework, television and other after-school activities. If you must have something in your mouth to concentrate, learn to drink tea, water or club soda with low-calorie juice. Brush your teeth after eating so you're less tempted to continue snacking.

• 3

  Intramural soccer programs welcome everyone.

  Take up a sport or physical activity. Ask a teacher or other school official about intramural soccer, dancing or martial arts programs. If your high school doesn't have anything that interests you, look into your local community center. If you're a solitary type, take up jogging or tap dance. If you're more of a team player, consider basketball or field hockey.

• 4

  Focus on small goals, like 5 pounds at a time. Don't go overboard with any diet or exercise plans. Make sure your plan is healthy. If you're not sure, consult a doctor or school nurse.