Dear BeingGirl Experts,

I've been noticing that I'm starting to not be able to fit in some of my jeans! Plus I'm getting stretch marks. I'm not very skinny but I'm not very fat. I want to lose weight so I can fit in my clothes and look better. I exercise and try to eat the right foods all the time. What am I doing wrong?

Janelle

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Dear Janelle,

You are probably simply growing into a woman's body. Most teen girls gain weight in puberty. As you grow and mature, you may notice more fat on your thighs, on your upper arms and in the upper back area. You'll find your hips become rounder and fuller, and your waist will get narrower! Stretch marks are to be expected when you are rapidly growing as you do during puberty. In time they will fade.

Eating a healthy diet is important. Replacing junk food with fruits and vegetables is an easy and delicious way to keep extra pounds off. Exercise is also important and may need to be increased during your teen years.

Concerns about your weight should be discussed with your doctor/health care provider.

Hope this is helpful,

Your BeingGirl Experts