How to Talk to Your Teen About Diet Culture Before the New Year

Why This Conversation Matters

As the calendar turns, diet ads, “before-and-after” photos, and weight-loss challenges flood social media, TV, and even casual conversations. Teens — already navigating body changes, peer pressure, and social media comparisons — are especially vulnerable to these messages.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) warns that dieting in adolescents can increase the risk of disordered eating, poor nutrition, and negative body image. What teens need instead is a focus on overall health, self-acceptance, and balanced habits that last all year — not a “quick fix” for January.

5 Ways to Talk to Your Teen About Diet Culture

1. Define Diet Culture in Simple Terms

Explain that diet culture is the belief that a certain body type (usually thin) is the most valuable, and that food and exercise are only tools to control weight. Let them know these ideas are often harmful and don’t reflect true health.

💡 Try saying: “Diet culture makes it seem like our worth is tied to size or weight — but real health is about how we feel, how we move, and how we care for our bodies.”

2. Shift the Focus from Weight to Wellbeing

Avoid commenting on body size (theirs or others’) and instead celebrate behaviors: getting enough sleep, enjoying movement, choosing balanced meals, managing stress, and connecting with friends. Focus on health, having energy, and feeling good, rather than aiming for weightloss or being a certain size. 

💡 Try saying: “I’m proud of how you’ve been making time for soccer practice — staying active is great for your energy and mood.”

3. Model a Healthy Relationship with Food

Teens notice your habits. Avoid labeling foods as “good” or “bad.” Instead, talk about how different foods make you feel and how variety supports your health.

💡 Try saying: “Let’s add some roasted veggies to this pasta — I love the flavor, and it keeps me full longer.”

4. Teach Media Literacy

Help your teen question unrealistic body standards and manipulative marketing. Point out photo editing, filters, and paid influencer endorsements in their social media feeds.

💡 Try saying: “That transformation post might be sponsored or edited — bodies don’t usually change overnight like that.”

5. Keep the Conversation Open

Make sure your teen knows they can come to you with questions or insecurities about food and body image without judgment. If you notice signs of disordered eating, reach out to your pediatrician or a mental health professional early.

💡 Try saying: “If you ever feel stressed about your body or food, you can tell me — we’ll figure it out together.”

The “New Year, New You” message is everywhere in December and January — but you can help your teen see through it. By focusing on health over appearance, teaching media literacy, and modeling balanced habits, you can protect their self-esteem and build a foundation for lifelong wellness.

Sources:

• American Academy of Pediatrics – Preventing Obesity and Eating Disorders in Adolescents

• HealthyChildren.org – Body Image and Your Teen

• National Eating Disorders Association – Understanding Diet Culture