Diet, Not Die
By Seema, age 14, California
We have all been on a diet. Many of us are on one now. With all the pressures to be thin in school, in the media, and even from ourselves, we may develop an eating disorder. Anorexia and bulimia are two very common and dangerous eating disorders. Anorexia is the refusal to eat because one thinks (s)he is fat when in fact (s)he is thin. Anorexics often avoid high calorie foods and exercise all the time.
Although anorexics lose weight quickly there are severe consequences. These include osteoporosis, heart failure, brain damage, seizures, hair loss, loss of menstrual cycle, dizziness, pale/yellowish skin, and death.
Anorexia and bulimia are completely different. With bulimia you eat large amounts of food (also known as a binge) then throw it up (known as a purge). Like anorexia there are many risks involved, including esophageal problems (holes in your esophagus), organ damage, dry skin, loss of menstrual cycle, damage to vocal chords, hair loss, osteoporosis, low body temperature, stomach ulcers, digestive problems, irregular hormones, insomnia, low red cell levels, damage to your immune system, and weak muscles.
Both anorexia and bulimia have psychological side affects as well, such as depression, mood changes, avoidance of other people, constantly worrying about weight loss and food, anxiety, low self-esteem, and the inability to eat with others.
There are healthier ways to lose weight. Diet and exercise are two very important aspects to losing weight. You should have three balanced meals every day. Breakfast is the most important meal. Having a healthy breakfast lets your body prepare for all the food that is coming later in the day by speeding up your metabolism. For breakfast maybe have a bowl of oatmeal or a bowl of granola and milk. I promise, they taste delicious!
Dinner is the least important meal of the day. You should try to eat dinner before 7 o'clock and have a light dinner. When you are sleeping your body burns calories. Try to have a big breakfast and a small dinner. You will be a little happier when you step on the scale.
Some healthy recipes:
The Antioxidant Smoothie
Briefly blend:1 cup frozen blueberries
1 cup frozen raspberries
1 cup acai berry juice (such as Bom Dia Acai Berry with Cacao)
1/2 cup nonfat vanilla yogurt
1 tbsp. unsweetened dark chocolate cocoa powder
Spinach Omelet
1 or 2 (free range or organic)* eggs1 slice of (organic)* cheese
well-drained cooked spinach (force out as much water as possible)
* a suggestion - not necessary
Instructions:
1) Scramble the eggs slightly. A little milk, salt and pepper may be added.
2) Add the desired amount of spinach and cheese to the eggs.
3) Place over medium heat in a skillet until the omelet becomes hot and starts to bubble.
