Preteen Weight Loss

If your daughter is really overweight, being aware of what she is eating is important. The average age for the adolescent growth spurt is between 10 and 12 years of age. During this time girls tend to add some extra body fat in preparation for growth. Unless your daughter is significantly overweight, a severe restriction of calories at this time may affect height growth.

However, many preteens drink excessive calories. Being aware of this is a first start. Limiting sugar sweetened beverages will help control weight and is an easy thing to do. Recommendations are for water, milk and only 4 to 6 ounces of juice each day.

Another thing you can do is offer healthy snacks and limit empty-calorie foods. Healthy snacks include fruit, cereal and low-fat milk, cereal bars, and yogurt.