Ask the Mom: How Do I Talk to My Overweight Teen?

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Hey there!

I really feel for you and your daughter, Lucy. Navigating the teen years can be tricky, especially when it comes to body image. At 13, she’s likely already aware of her weight and may be feeling some pressure about it. It’s great that you’re seeking ways to help her without adding to her stress. I totally get your concern about eating disorders too; it’s a valid worry these days.

You mentioned that you keep healthy foods at home, which is a fantastic start. However, it sounds like portion control might be a bit of a challenge. It might be helpful to have a casual chat with Lucy about serving sizes without making it a big deal. You could say something like, “Hey, I just learned that that bottle of chocolate milk has two servings—can you believe it?” This way, you can open up a dialogue about nutrition and healthy eating habits without making her feel singled out.

I also recommend focusing on overall health rather than weight. Encourage Lucy to engage in physical activities that she enjoys—sign her up for something fun, and make sure you’re active, too! Show her that healthy eating and exercise can be enjoyable rather than a chore. Think about introducing new, healthy foods or fun recipes together, framing it as adding good stuff to her life rather than taking away treats.

Remember, she knows her situation, so it’s all about being supportive without being critical. My personal style is to model healthy choices and offer advice only when it’s asked for. Believe me, that doesn’t happen often, but it’s when teens are most open to hearing what you have to say.

Good luck to you and Lucy on this journey!