Your body is still growing and developing, here’s how to support healthy weight changes without harming yourself.
Growth Means Your Weight Changes
During puberty, your body needs to gain weight to grow taller, build muscle, and develop. Weight gain during these years is normal and necessary.
Diets Can Harm Growing Bodies
Restrictive diets can stunt growth, mess with hormones, and damage your relationship with food. Avoid fad diets or extreme restrictions.
Focus on Nourishment, Not Numbers
Instead of counting calories, eat balanced meals with protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. Your body knows what it needs.
Movement Helps Everything
Regular activity builds muscle, strengthens bones, improves mood, and helps your body function well, regardless of weight changes.
If You Want to Gain Weight
Eat regular meals and snacks, include protein and healthy fats, add smoothies or nut butters, and do strength-building activities. Gain should be gradual.
If You Want to Lose Weight
Talk to a doctor first. They can check if weight loss is actually needed or if you’re just comparing yourself to others. If recommended, focus on movement and balanced eating.
Trust Your Body’s Timeline
Your body is changing rapidly. Weight that feels “wrong” now might redistribute as you grow. Give your body time before trying to change it.
Get Help If Needed
If you’re obsessing about weight, skipping meals, or feeling anxious about food, talk to a trusted adult or doctor. These are signs you need support.
Related articles
- Can I use a heating pad safely?
- Can exercise help with period symptoms?
- How can I stay safe on social media?
Understanding starts here.
Free to download. Free for every girl, always.