The statistics are unclear and it depends upon which “study” is cited, but between 16 and 33 percent of children and teenagers in America are obese. That is really alarming. And the fact is that most of these children and teenagers are from lower-income families.

What is the cause of this explosion of obesity in our young people? Basically, two main causes are cited: junk food and lack of exercise. Now there is a deadly combination if I’ve ever heard of one. Junk food is loaded with fat and calories, and when days are spent watching television or playing video games, the result isn’t the least bit surprising.

So what can overweight teens do to help themselves? The surface answer appears simple: stop eating junk food, and get more exercise. But life out in the real world really isn’t quite that simple.

Overweight teens need guidance and they need an adult in their world that can lead them in the right direction, show them how to make healthy food choices, and show them how to get more exercise.

A great many sites on the Internet are dedicated to helping teens lose weight. If you are an adult with a working relationship with an overweight teen, do that child a favor and point them in the direction of those websites; then supply the advice and support that the child needs to overcome a weight problem.

If you are an obese teen, ask for help. Go to your parents or a teacher or a counselor or a religious leader that you trust and ASK for help. Help IS out there. You are not doomed to a life of obesity. You can make the changes now that will give a long and healthy life as a person that’s a regular size.