A Winning Weight?
Don't let pressure to perform push your young athlete into extreme weight watching.
Taking unhealthy weight control measures, such as food restriction, binging, and dehydration, rarely improves a child's sports performance and often leads to injuries and medical complications. Keep an eye on your child's eating and workout habits, and talk to him and his coaches about managing expectations.
Losing or gaining more than one or two pounds a week could be dangerous, according to a recent policy statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Drastic weight changes can lead to problems with normal growth and can place kids at a greater risk for eating disorders later on. Wrestling, cheerleading, and long-distance running are just some of the lean-body sports that may encourage kids of both genders to skip meals, crash diet, vomit, use laxatives, or even dehydrate themselves, all in the name of weight loss. On the other hand, football players and basketball players may take supplements or steroids to gain weight, which also can be harmful.
Keep a dialog going with your kids about the sports they play, and listen for clues indicating any unrealistic expectations they may have about their bodies and their abilities. Also, check in with their coaches on a regular basis to ensure safety and healthy nutrition is encouraged.
If your child suddenly drops or gains a significant amount of weight, suffers dramatic mood swings, or if you find her using laxatives, diet pills, supplements, or steroids, talk to her and, if necessary, visit your pediatrician. Kids in such situations may feel threatened or angry, so be sure to express your concerns in a positive, supportive way, and let them know that you're thinking about their long-term well-being.
