Teens -- It's Never Too Early To Be Healthy!
How you treat your body now can impact your health for years to come.
Avoid Tobacco
Don't start smoking, which can cause cancer, heart disease and lung disease. Chewing tobacco can lead to oral cancer, gum disease and an increased risk for heart attack.
Eat Well and Exercise
Doing so can help you maintain a healthy weight and avoid type 2 diabetes, which if left uncontrolled, can raise your risk for early heart disease.Ask for Help
Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia usually start in the teen years. If not treated, stomach, heart and other health problems may result. Reach out to an adult right away if you or a friend might have an eating disorder.Protect Your Skin
Don't tan. UV light from tanning beds poses the same risks as the sun's rays -- skin cancer, eye damage and premature aging of the skin.Build Your Bones
Good health habits can help you build and maintain break-resistant bones. Get 1,300 mg of calcium a day and do weight-bearing activities like basketball or jogging.Could You Have Bulimia?
People with bulimia generally go on eating binges, then purge with laxatives or vomiting. They also may exercise obsessively. Other potential warning signs include:- Reddened, calloused or scarred fingers from inducing vomiting
- Swollen cheeks or neck glands
- Teeth that look clear or are decayed from stomach acid
- Irregular menstrual periods in girls
- Use of diuretics or water pills
- Strict dieting and an unusual preoccupation with calorie counting
- Intense fear of gaining weight
- Frequent use of the bathroom after meals
The Center for Change, a subsidiary of Universal Health Services, Inc., specializes in comprehensive treatment of adolescents and adults with eating disorders. For more details, visit www.cfclasvegas.com or call 702-252-8255.
