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Home > Health Information > Kidshealth

For Teens

Food & Fitness

  • 5 Facts About Goal Setting

    Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.

  • Bursitis

    Bursitis, an irritation of the small fluid sacs that provide cushioning in some joints, is often caused by sports-related injuries or repeated use of a particular joint.

  • Choosing the Right Sport for You

    If you're having trouble choosing a sport, this article can help!

  • Compulsive Exercise

    Compulsive exercise can lead to serious health problems. Lots of people don't know when they've crossed the line from healthy activity to unhealthy addiction. Read about ways to tell.

  • Dynamic Stretching (Video)

    These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.

  • Easy Exercises for Teens

    Finding it hard to fit in fitness? Try these simple exercises for teens.

  • Exercise Log

    Keeping an exercise log is a great way to stay motivated and reach exercise goals.

  • Knee Injuries

    Knee injuries are common when you're active or playing sports. Learn about different types of knee injuries, symptoms, treatments, and prevention.

  • Motivation and the Power of Not Giving Up

    Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.

  • Sports and Exercise Safety

    Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.

  • Sports Drinks and Energy Drinks

    When it comes to staying hydrated, you have many drinks to choose from. But are sports and energy drinks a good option?

  • Sports Physicals

    Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.

  • Strength Training

    Is working out with weights safe for teens? The best way to build muscle tone and definition is to combine aerobic and flexibility exercises with the right kind of strength training.

  • Stretching

    You may have heard mixed things about stretching before working out. Here are the cold, hard facts on warming up, stretching, and cooling down.

  • Weight Management: Strength Training Exercises (Video)

    These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.

  • What if I Want to Quit a Sport?

    You might find yourself wanting to quit a sport. Here are some ways to decide what to do.

  • Why Exercise Is Wise

    Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.

  • Yoga

    Looking for a workout program that's easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? Read about yoga - and watch our slideshow for some easy poses to try.

  • 5 Ways to Beat Summer Weight Gain

    Surprisingly, summer can be a time when people gain weight, not lose it. These tips help you stay on track.

  • 5 Ways to Reach a Healthy Weight

    Most dieters regain the weight they lost by dieting when they go back to their old eating habits. Get our tips on the best ways to drop excess weight.

  • Are Detox Diets Safe?

    The name sounds reassuring - everyone knows that anything toxic is bad for you. But detox diets aren't good for teens. Find out why.

  • Body Mass Index (BMI)

    One of the biggest questions guys and girls have as they grow and develop is whether they're the right weight. One place to start is by learning about body mass index, or BMI.

  • Breakfast on the Go

    Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.

  • Easy Exercises for Teens

    Finding it hard to fit in fitness? Try these simple exercises for teens.

  • Emotional Eating

    We've all eaten a whole bag of chips out of boredom or while cramming for a big test. Learn more about emotional eating, and how to manage it, in this article for teens.

  • Exercise Log

    Keeping an exercise log is a great way to stay motivated and reach exercise goals.

  • Food Portions: How Much Should I Eat?

    Lots of us don't realize we're eating too much because we've become so used to large portions. This article for teens helps you take control of your plate.

  • How Can I Lose Weight Safely?

    Lots of people are unhappy with their present weight, but aren't sure how to change it - or even if they need to. Get the facts on weight loss here.

  • Motivation and the Power of Not Giving Up

    Everyone struggles with staying motivated and reaching their goals. Just look at how many people diet, lose weight, and then gain it back again. But it's still possible to stay motivated if you take the right approach.

  • MyPlate Food Guide

    MyPlate is designed to help people make smart food choices. Its different food groups are a reminder of what – and how much – we should put on our plates to stay healthy.

  • Staying at a Healthy Weight

    Here are some practical, everyday tips on making exercise and healthy eating work for you instead of feeling like it's the other way around.

  • The Deal With Diets

    With all the focus on dieting, how do you figure out what's healthy and what isn't? Read this article to get the basics on dieting.

  • Weight Management: Strength Training Exercises (Video)

    These videos guide teens through basic strength training exercises. Anyone can do these exercises, and they work well as part of a weight-loss plan.

  • What's the Right Weight for My Height?

    One of the biggest questions guys and girls have is whether they're the right weight. Because the body is growing and changing so much during adolescence, it can be tough to answer this question.

  • When Being Overweight Is a Health Problem

    A couple of pounds of extra body fat are not a health risk for most people. But when people are severely overweight, it can cause health problems.

  • 5 Ways to Get Your 5 a Day

    You may know that you should eat 5 servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Here are some tips on making that happen.

  • A Guide to Eating for Sports

    You've prepared for the game in almost every way possible: but now what should you eat? Read about performance foods, nutritional supplements, and more.

  • Being a Vegetarian

    People choose vegetarianism for a variety of reasons. This article describes different types of vegetarianism and provides advice on ways for vegetarians to get all the nutrients they need.

  • Breakfast on the Go

    Use these breakfast planning ideas to select healthy foods that satisfy your taste buds and get you on your way fast.

  • Caffeine

    Caffeine has probably helped you through long nights of studying or filling out college applications. But how much do you know about caffeine and its side effects?

  • Calcium

    Your parents were right to make you drink milk when you were little. It's loaded with calcium, a mineral vital for building strong bones and teeth.

  • Cholesterol

    Cholesterol is a type of fat found in your blood. The body needs some cholesterol, but too much can be a problem. Discover more about cholesterol.

  • Cystic Fibrosis: Sample Menu

    This sample meal plan for teens with cystic fibrosis provides a day's worth of meals that add up to about 3,750 calories.

  • Dietary Tips for Teens With Cystic Fibrosis

    Teens with cystic fibrosis have some specific nutritional needs. Here's how they can meet those needs.

  • Egg Allergy

    Living with an egg allergy means you have to be aware of what you're eating and read food labels carefully. Here are some tips for teens who have an egg allergy.

  • Fiber

    Some of the best and most delicious foods have loads of fiber. Find out how to get your fill of fiber!

  • Figuring Out Fat and Calories

    From all you hear, you'd think fat and calories are really bad for you, but we all need a certain amount of them in our diets. Find out the truth about fat and calories.

  • Food Allergies

    Doctors are diagnosing more and more people with food allergies. Knowing what to expect and how to deal with food allergies can make a big difference in preventing serious illness.

  • Food Labels

    Look at any packaged food and you'll see the food label. This nutrition facts label gives the lowdown on everything from calories to cholesterol. Read more about food labels.

  • Food Portions: How Much Should I Eat?

    Lots of us don't realize we're eating too much because we've become so used to large portions. This article for teens helps you take control of your plate.

  • Healthy Eating Away From Home

    We all know the importance of eating well. But how are you supposed to do so when your schedule is so demanding you're never at home? Find out how to make healthy food choices on the go.

  • Lactose Intolerance

    If you have lactose intolerance, you're not alone. Lots of people have the condition. Check out these tips on dealing with lactose intolerance.

  • Milk Allergy

    Milk is in all kinds of foods, even things like baked goods. So what should a person who's allergic to milk do?

  • MyPlate Food Guide

    MyPlate is designed to help people make smart food choices. Its different food groups are a reminder of what – and how much – we should put on our plates to stay healthy.

  • Peanut Allergy

    Peanuts are one of the most common allergy-causing foods, and they often find their way into things you wouldn't imagine. Learn the facts on living with a peanut allergy.

  • Should I Gain Weight?

    Some teens think that they're too skinny, and wonder if they should do something about it. It’s normal to gain weight during the teen years, but trying to put on extra pounds may not be the way to go.

  • Smart Snacking

    Find out how eating nutritious snacks throughout the day can keep your energy level high and your mind alert.

  • Sports Drinks and Energy Drinks

    When it comes to staying hydrated, you have many drinks to choose from. But are sports and energy drinks a good option?

  • Tree Nut Allergy

    Sometimes people outgrow some food allergies over time, but tree nut allergies are lifelong in many people.

  • Vitamins and Minerals

    Vitamins and minerals are nutrients that the body needs to work properly. They boost the immune system, promote normal growth and development, and help cells and organs do their jobs.

  • Ankle Sprains

    A sprained ankle is a very common injury that happens when the ligaments that support the ankle get overly stretched or torn. Find out how to avoid ankle sprains and what to do if you get one.

  • Binge Eating Disorder

    Binge eating is a type of eating disorder. This article explains what it is, how to recognize it, and how to get help.

  • Body Image and Self-Esteem

    When your body changes, so can your image of yourself. Find out how your body image affects your self-esteem and what you can do.

  • Bursitis

    Bursitis, an irritation of the small fluid sacs that provide cushioning in some joints, is often caused by sports-related injuries or repeated use of a particular joint.

  • Compulsive Exercise

    Compulsive exercise can lead to serious health problems. Lots of people don't know when they've crossed the line from healthy activity to unhealthy addiction. Read about ways to tell.

  • Eating Disorders

    Eating disorders are problems that affect a person’s eating behaviors as well as attitudes and feelings about food and their body. This article for teens describes how different eating disorders impact a person's health and emotions.

  • Emotional Eating

    We've all eaten a whole bag of chips out of boredom or while cramming for a big test. Learn more about emotional eating, and how to manage it, in this article for teens.

  • Exercise-Induced Asthma

    Some people have asthma symptoms only during or after exercise. This is called exercise-induced asthma. Here are some tips for coping with it.

  • Female Athlete Triad

    Female athlete triad is a combination of three conditions: disordered eating, amenorrhea (loss of a girl's period), and osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones).

  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee)

    Patellofemoral pain syndrome (or runner's knee) is the most common overuse injury among runners, but it can also happen to other athletes who do activities that require a lot of knee bending.

  • Shellfish Allergy

    Shellfish allergies can be serious - and shellfish can appear in some surprising foods and products. Read about shellfish allergy and what to do when a reaction is severe.

  • Stomachaches

    Lots of different problems can cause similar kinds of stomach pain - not all of them related to the digestive system. Here are some clues about what could be going on.

  • 5 Facts About Goal Setting

    Here are 5 practical tips on goal setting that can help make it easier to set and reach goals.

  • 5 Ways to Prepare for Your Sports Season

    How can you get ready to play your best season ever? Read these tips for teen athletes.

  • A Guide to Eating for Sports

    You've prepared for the game in almost every way possible: but now what should you eat? Read about performance foods, nutritional supplements, and more.

  • Ankle Sprains

    A sprained ankle is a very common injury that happens when the ligaments that support the ankle get overly stretched or torn. Find out how to avoid ankle sprains and what to do if you get one.

  • Bursitis

    Bursitis, an irritation of the small fluid sacs that provide cushioning in some joints, is often caused by sports-related injuries or repeated use of a particular joint.

  • Choosing the Right Sport for You

    If you're having trouble choosing a sport, this article can help!

  • Dealing With Sports Injuries

    You practiced hard and made sure you wore protective gear, but you still got hurt. Read this article to find out how to take care of sports injuries - and how to avoid getting them.

  • Dealing With Stress In Sports

    The key to keeping calm when playing sports is to develop a healthy attitude and learn to deal with the stress that comes with competing. Here’s how.

  • Dynamic Stretching (Video)

    These videos guide you through 8 dynamic stretches that target different muscles and areas of the body.

  • Female Athlete Triad

    Female athlete triad is a combination of three conditions: disordered eating, amenorrhea (loss of a girl's period), and osteoporosis (a weakening of the bones).

  • Hernias

    A hernia is an opening or weakness in the wall of a muscle, tissue, or membrane that normally holds an organ in place. Learning to prevent hernias isn't hard to do - check out these tips.

  • How to Be a Good Sport

    Some people define good sportsmanship as treating the people that you play with and against as you'd like to be treated yourself. Learn more about what being a good sport is all about.

  • Knee Injuries

    Knee injuries are common when you're active or playing sports. Learn about different types of knee injuries, symptoms, treatments, and prevention.

  • Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injuries

    MCL injuries happen when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, causing a torn ligament.

  • Osgood-Schlatter Disease

    Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is an overuse injury that can cause knee pain in teens, especially during growth spurts. Learn more.

  • Overuse Injuries

    Overuse (or repetitive stress) injuries happen when too much stress is placed on a part of the body, causing problems like swelling, pain, muscle strain, and tissue damage.

  • Safety Tips: Baseball

    Baseball is by no means a dangerous sport. But it can present a very real risk of injuries from things like wild pitches, batted balls, and collisions in the field.

  • Safety Tips: Basketball

    It's fun to play and great exercise, but basketball is also a contact sport, and injuries happen. To stay safe on the basketball court, follow these safety tips.

  • Safety Tips: Cheerleading

    Cheerleading today requires considerable athletic ability. The more challenging it gets, the greater the risk of getting hurt. Find out how to avoid injuries.

  • Safety Tips: Fastpitch Softball

    Softball is a very safe sport, especially slow-pitch. But in fastpitch, things speed up, and that increases the chances of getting hurt. So keep these safety tips in mind.

  • Safety Tips: Field Hockey

    Field hockey is a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To minimize your risk of injury, follow these safety tips.

  • Safety Tips: Football

    Football is a lot of fun, but since the name of the game is to hit somebody, injuries are common. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.

  • Safety Tips: Gymnastics

    Gymnastics is a great sport and a fun way to get a muscular, toned body. But, it also presents a very real risk of injury. To keep things safe during practice and competition, follow these tips.

  • Safety Tips: Hockey

    As fun as it is, ice hockey carries a very real risk of injury. To find out how to stay as safe as possible, follow these tips.

  • Safety Tips: Inline Skating

    Inline skating is good exercise and an excellent off-season training program for hockey and skiing. To stay safe while inline skating, take a look at these tips.

  • Safety Tips: Lacrosse

    When everyone's moving so fast and using sticks to sling a solid rubber ball around, injuries are bound to happen in lacrosse. Here's how to avoid them.

  • Safety Tips: Skateboarding

    Skateboarding is undeniably cool, but it's also easy to get hurt. Keep it safe while skateboarding with these safety tips.

  • Safety Tips: Skiing

    There's a lot to love about skiing, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these tips to stay safe on the slopes.

  • Safety Tips: Snowboarding

    Snowboarding is a great way to have fun, but it can also present some very real dangers. Follow these safety tips to learn how to stay safe on the slopes.

  • Safety Tips: Soccer

    Soccer is easy to learn at a young age, and it's great exercise. But it's also a contact sport, and injuries are bound to happen. To help prevent mishaps, follow these safety tips.

  • Safety Tips: Swimming

    To keep things as safe as possible for swimming season, follow these tips.

  • Safety Tips: Tennis

    Injuries in tennis are rare, but it's good to be aware before you play. To minimize your risk of injury while playing tennis, follow these safety tips.

  • Safety Tips: Volleyball

    Following these tips can help protect you from injuries while playing volleyball.

  • Safety Tips: Wrestling

    In wrestling, injuries are bound to happen sometimes. To keep things as safe as possible, follow these tips.

  • Sports and Exercise Safety

    Playing hard doesn't have to mean getting hurt. The best way to ensure a long and injury-free athletic career is to play it safe from the start. Find out how.

  • Sports Drinks and Energy Drinks

    When it comes to staying hydrated, you have many drinks to choose from. But are sports and energy drinks a good option?

  • Sports Physicals

    Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to get a sports physical.

  • Sports Supplements

    Sports supplements are products used to enhance athletic performance. Lots of people who want to improve their performance have questions about how supplements work and whether they're safe.

  • Stress Fractures

    It's not always easy to tell if you have a stress fracture, and stress fractures can get worse quickly. This article explains how to prevent and treat them.

  • Stretching

    You may have heard mixed things about stretching before working out. Here are the cold, hard facts on warming up, stretching, and cooling down.

  • Testicular Injuries

    Serious testicular injuries are relatively uncommon, but testicular injury can be painful. Here's how you can protect yourself from injury.

  • What Are the Risks of Steroid Use?

    Will using steroids transform you into the most powerful athlete your coach has ever seen? Read this article to learn the facts on steroid use.

  • What if I Want to Quit a Sport?

    You might find yourself wanting to quit a sport. Here are some ways to decide what to do.

  • When Can Teens Go Back to Sports After a Concussion?

    As long as people play sports, there will be concussions from time to time. Find out how to protect yourself and when it's safe to return to sports after a concussion.

  • Body Image and Self-Esteem

    When your body changes, so can your image of yourself. Find out how your body image affects your self-esteem and what you can do.

  • How Much Sleep Do I Need?

    Teens need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. But you might not be getting it. Here's why - and tips for getting more shut-eye.

  • Smart Snacking

    Find out how eating nutritious snacks throughout the day can keep your energy level high and your mind alert.

  • What's the Right Weight for My Height?

    One of the biggest questions guys and girls have is whether they're the right weight. Because the body is growing and changing so much during adolescence, it can be tough to answer this question.

  • Why Exercise Is Wise

    Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.

  • Yoga

    Looking for a workout program that's easy to learn, requires little or no equipment, and soothes your soul while toning your body? Read about yoga - and watch our slideshow for some easy poses to try.

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