HEALTHY (?) WEIGHT LOSS FOR BOYS

Mrs. Cook,

Unfortunately weight loss is a part of youth football. However, sweating out water weight is not a safe, healthy or permanent method of losing weight. I would suggest changing your son's diet in order to lose weight. I suggest a diet of fresh fruits and fresh vegatables and lots of them. Your son should be able to eat as much of these foods as he wants at mealtimes until he is no longer hungry. If he must eat between meals, make sure that it is a piece of fruit or vegetable strips. I would also try to eat as little meat as possible. Meat takes much longer to digest and therefore increases your weight.

A typical day might be as follows: Morning: Can eat any kind of fruit in any quantity until lunch. Lunch: Fresh salad with lots of vegetables (cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes, etc.)Try to use fat free dressing. Dinner: More vegetables, another salad (no bread)

Your son should be able to lose 2-5 pounds in the first week. He will probably have the need to go to the bathroom frequently. He may also may have some gas pains initially. This is generally normal, and eventually goes away. Of course, if your son has any health problems, it would be wise to consult your doctor before you change his diet.

Fruits and vegetables will supply your son with carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals needed to function, but he will lose weight.