Weight Watchers for Teens: Helpful or Harmful?
The expected program intends to instill healthy behaviors earlier in life, but critics say it’s sending a destructive message.
By Anna Medaris Miller, Staff Writer |Feb. 20, 2018, at 9:41 a.m.
Weight Watchers for Teens: Helpful or Harmful?
NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 28: Weight Watchers signage displayed at a Weight Watchers meeting room and store location in Staten Island, New York on June 28, 2016 in New York City.
Before age 12, Becca was a normal, happy Midwestern kid. She loved dancing and swimming, did well in school and giggled with friends over Starbucks Frappuccinos. After age 12, Becca was different. She only danced and swam to burn calories, had trouble focusing in school and retreated from friends who socialized over food.
The turning point, says Becca, who asked that her last name not be used to protect her privacy, was joining Weight Watchers. She signed up for the program a few years after her doctor had told her she needed to lose weight, since she exceeded what was considered a healthy range for her age group. Never mind that she was off the charts in height, too.
https://health.usnews.com/wellness/food/articles/2018-02-20/weight-watchers-for-teens-helpful-or-harmful
