In the last twenty years plus, the number of obese teenagers has tripled to almost nine million. The rise in teen-age obesity is staggering. Being overweight is difficult for anyone, but for teenagers the effects can be worse and include health problems and being entirely left out social scene.

Accompanying the increase in obesity in children is an upsurge in type two diabetes diagnoses. The increased incidence of obesity has also caused an increase in this form of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes can cause renal failure, blindness, and even death.

Sleep apnea causes those who have it to stop breathing for a brief time during sleep. People that are obese can suffer from sleep apnea, because it can cause breathing problems when lying down. The oxygen insufficiency which results may, depending on the circumstances, lead to major problems ranging from heart and brain damage to death.

Asthma may have an obesity link are the sudies that begun to show only recently. In cases of severe obesity the lungs cannot properly expand causing constriction of the airways. Also, its been suggested that the low grade systematic inflammation common in obese, this inflammation can affect smooth muscle tissue and cause more restriction of the airways.

It is noticeable that most of the teenagers of today are not after of their physical health but rather on something that could make them happy and fell comfortable. The overweight teen may have an awful experience at school. Other kids are cruel and say nasty things to them. It is a bad thing that overweight teenagers also suffer from mental issues due to their weight that is another concern enitrely.

Teen’s eating habits are a big factor in obesity of that age group. Teens are known for their preference for junk food. Vending machines containing junk food have been removed in many school districts. They have replaced them with juice, water, and healthy snacks.

To go one-step further the teenager should begin changing their diet at home. Stop eating the high calorie fast food they are so in love with and opt instead for healthy home cooked meals.

The best plan is to slowly introduce healthier choices in your diet. Three regular meals per day and two snacks. Throw away packaged foods in favor of home made. Portion control, start with a small amount on the plate, and eat slowly. Remember they do not have to clean the plate! Balance the diet, have several helpings of fruits and vegetables. Drink plenty of water, sometimes when we think we are hungry it is actually thirst, plus a well-hydrated body functions better.

Teenagers are getting less and less in the way of exercise. Increased television access, internet surfing and video games have made many a teenager almost sedentary. Take the television out of the bedroom and insist on viewing limits. Instead go for a walk as a family, or perhaps get bikes for everyone.

If all else fails come up with some creative chores they can do to get some exercise. Mowing the lawn, raking leaves or shoveling snow are all good forms of exercise. Your goal is to get them moving no matter what it takes.