Advice for parents on dealing with teens' weight

February 20, 2009 A report in the Journal of Adolescent Health says families should talk less about weight and instead eat more healthy meals together.

The study tracked more than 2,500 teens. It says discouraging unhealthy dieting and reminding teens that dangerous diet practices could actually lead to added pounds may help prevent obesity.

Also, doctors are encouraged to focus on helping teens feel better about heir body image rather than using body dissatisfaction as a need for change.