My daughter, Danielle, is joining the Slimmer This Summer challenge. I wasn't sure about it as she just turned 14. In some ways, I don't think a 14 year old growing girl needs to be counting calories or dieting but she is overweight and needs to learn how to eat correctly. My hopes are that over the next 12 weeks, she will become more aware of what she is eating and learning better how to eat. She doesn't eat horribly and she is only slightly overweight. I do see an upward trend though if she continues this way. So I think this may be a crucial time to 'become aware' and get into gear.
She is 5'4" and just a little overweight by the guidelines. She certainly is sporting extra fat around the tummy and sides that would be nice to go away. As she is a teenager, she is becoming more aware of this and self conscious. We're not going to do anything extreme and I don't want her to be "hard core" dieting but we're going to write down everything she eats, portion and weigh things and get in some regular exercise. She doesn't have a blog so I'll just be entering it for her here.
Like me, for her regular exercise has been hit or miss. She did run a 5K last fall and she did awesome! Her attitude towards exercise is great, it just tends to get pushed to the side without reminders.
So together we're going to do help each other. We're both looking forward to it! I'm not entirely sure the difference in calories that a 14 year old should have compared to an adult so if anyone wants to help, let me know. My plan as of now though is just to eat well balanced meals in "normal" portions with healthy snacks. Isn't that really what we all should have?
My personal record of my weight loss journey. My goal is to post daily, weigh in monthly and hopefully see some results!
Put a call into her pediatrician and check in with what her caloric needs should be. For a child I think it would be VERY wise to do such, and really sets a great example for her too that diets and exercise plans are a serious thing. Also her doctor should have great advice. I remember seeing the pediatrician about my weight when I was about her age as well. You could probably do something as simple as just putting a call in without physically going in, but even going in and talking about it would be great too, and again presents a great example.
ReplyDeleteThat is so great. My daughter is doing my thing with me but she is 23. It is fun having a diet partner at home.
ReplyDeleteDebbi, that is great! It will be a great experience to work at this together! I'm sure you will both do great!
ReplyDeleteActually, she is scheduled for a doctor appointment this week so I will be asking about calories and nutrition for her. I'd forgotten we even had the appointment. Thanks!
ReplyDeletei agree with Emily, i think it's okay for her to follow a healthy diet and an active lifestyle since nowadays more kids are at risk of obesity..cut down on junks and fast foods are a must.
ReplyDeleteGreat for you! yeah, doing anything with a partner makes things more enjoyable for both sides. All the best to both of you!
ReplyDeleteDebbi, my sister's name is Danielle! It's not one I see around too often. I think her joining the challenge is a great idea and it will help you both to have someone at home for motivation.
ReplyDeleteThis is great for her. I wish I'd had this kind of positive role modelling at that age. I certainly could have gone either way still. Making it healthy and fun is just a great learing experience for her and it'll give her a tool to use her whole life without having to resort to fads and extremes.
ReplyDelete