Book Description

Overweight Teenagers: Don't Bear the Burden Alone is a straightforward guide designed to speak frankly to teenagers about what overweight is and how to confront it safely and effectively. Dr. Michael D. LeBow, an expert in the field of obesity studies, stresses that young people must not judge their self-worth solely by reading a weight scale. Sensitive to teenagers' lack of self-esteem, the author urges consideration of the pros and cons of controlling overweight. Through a series of revealing accounts with overweight teenagers and their parents, Dr. LeBow looks upon a number of important issues, in particular the verbal abuse inflicted by peers; the risks of possible illness in adulthood (e.g., coronary heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancer); the importance of acknowledging and overcoming obstacles; the value of "positives" in controlling actions and behavior to design a better overall environment; and the contradictory eating protocols befalling teens at home, school, or in public places. As a compassionate, exceptionally beneficial advisor, the author maintains that those who want to be thinner deserve access to safe, rational methods of weight loss. In addition, the text is clarified by a comprehensive set of Recommended Dietary Allowances tables and an appendix of suggested readings. Overweight Teenagers not only teaches, but advocates the challenge to lose overweight without jeopardizing oneself, without suffering stratagems destined to damage the body and depress the spirit. By enlisting and accepting the aid of parents, doctors, and teachers, teenagers will discover that they need not bear alone the burden of overweight. Guidance counselors and school administrators, physicians, nutritionists, behavioral psychologists, and other health professionals will find this an important resource for helping teens.