Abstract of

A Fitness and Nutrition Guide for Teenage Girls

by

Katherine R. Sinor

Summer 2002

California State University, Sacramento

Statement of the Problem

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women, followed by cancer and stroke. Lifestyle behaviors and influencing factors such as smoking, eating a diet high in calories and fat, inactivity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, stress, age, gender, and genetics increase a person's likelihood of becoming disabled or dying prematurely from these conditions. While government officials and medical experts continue to provide warnings about the risk behaviors associated with these, too many Americans continue to make unhealthy choices. Research studies now conclude that the lifestyle behaviors a person establishes and maintains during childhood and adolescence can influence their risk of developing cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, obesity or osteoporosis later in life. Adequate levels of exercise and proper nutrition are two effective strategies to lowering the risk to these disease conditions. If these behaviors are established early in life during childhood and adolescence a person is more likely to practice these behaviors throughout adulthood. Exercise and physical activity has also proven an effective behavior for teenage girls in increasing self-esteem and body image, reducing teen pregnancy, reducing alcohol, tobacco and drug use, lowering stress, and increasing school achievement.

Sources of Data

Related books, focusing specifically on female health issues were the primary source of data for this project. Journal articles and related research studies were also referenced for statistical information. School Health textbooks were reviewed for organizational and content ideas for the guide.

Conclusions Reached

Despite health warnings, too many Americans continue to practice unhealthy lifestyle behaviors that place them at risk of premature death from disease. Obesity, diabetes, and hypertension are on the rise among children and adolescents. Young people are not receiving the necessary health information or physical education in public schools to become informed and understand the benefits of fitness and nutrition. Parents, teachers, coaches, and mentors associated with children need to become role models and better educated about healthy lifestyle behaviors.