Diet decision
Question
I'm 16 and feel like I'm getting fatter and don't know what to do about it. What diet or exercise should I try?
Answer
You seem concerned that you are overweight. It's very easy to be critical about our bodies, especially if we compare ourselves to the skinny supermodels we see in the media.
It's not clear whether you have discussed your concerns with anyone else, but you might like to have a chat with your local doctor (GP). They will be able to actually confirm whether you have a healthy bodyweight for your particular age and situation.
If your doctor does recommend that you try to lose some weight, then they will be able to explain how to do this healthily.
In short, the key is to enjoy a healthy diet and to exercise regularly.
As you are in your mid-teens (and so are still growing) it's especially important that you make sure you are getting all the correct nutrients. For information on balanced diets, you could look at the information and advice on healthy eating from the Food Standards Agency website. But basically you should be including carbohydrates (such as bread and pasta - preferably wholegrain), protein (including meat, eggs, diary products, nuts and beans) and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. You should also eat less fatty foods, however if you eat a balanced diet then there is no problem having junk food occasionally.
As for exercise, it's not clear whether you partake in any physical activity on a regular basis, but experts recommend you exercise 3-5 times a week. Activities like walking, running, swimming and cycling can burn calories and make you feel good.
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