Teenage obesity is rising significantly throughout the world. So should we cut pizzas, burgers, potato chips and colas totally out of our diet? Our lifestyle is also to blame, especially if we have a sedentary lifestyle or do not exert our self physically.

Obesity is the major risk factors for several diseases. Both parents and doctors are worried about the health that comes along with obesity. Obese teenagers become obese adults. And they are at greater risk for diseases like heart disease, stroke, lung failure, kidney failure, hypertension, type-2 diabetes. Previously, a large number of people in the age group of 30 to 40 got heart attacks. That has now advanced to youngsters of 25 or 26!

Obesity can also lead to depression in teenagers. But we can't ask a teenager to eat less. What should be done is reduce inactivity and the sedentary pattern of life. School based health services is the need of the hour. Hospitals should have a special way of dealing with obese teenagers.

Here are some calorie tips for teenagers:

• When you eat food look at it as simple (sugar, cake) and complex (vegetables, fruits) calories. Develop a taste for complex calories.
• Avoid rice, oil, and sugar
• Avoid aerated drinks; they are just empty calories
• It is fine to eat burgers or pizzas once in a while. Have them everyday and you are asking for trouble.
• Opt for high protein, low carbohydrate and zero fat diet.
• Exercise regularly
• Engage yourself in outdoor sports

A right diet plan together with regular exercise routine is the key to fight against teenage obesity. A slight change in lifestyle can help you improve your overall health.

Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.

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