Food worries

We scoff junk, slack on exercise - but HATE gaining weight. Surely it's time for a healthier attitude to food? Find out what Sugar magazine readers told us in an online poll...

Weight worries

Jamie Oliver's obsessed with us eating better school grub, Dr Gillian McKeith wants to raid our fridges, and shows like Supersize Kids are filling up serious telly airtime. So, do we really have a problem with our diets, or is it all just media hype?

more than 50% of you say you have been on a diet at least once and 10% admit to always being on a diet
The girls who have been on a diet at some point are more likely to feel depressed, tired and stressed than those who have never dieted.

'To look thin' is one of your main reasons for changing your diets
And this is more important to you than having energy for exercise.

15% would even consider taking laxatives or making yourselves sick to lose weight
But just by dieting many girls are missing out on the vital nutrients they need each day.

Bad habits: what are you actually eating?

Skipping breakfast, lunch or dinner is alarmingly normal.

25% of you say you try to eat as little as possible
But if you think ditching cereal or toast or passing up on lunch is the fast track to a slimmer you, you-re wrong: it-s actually more likely to have you piling on the pounds than losing them.

42% of you regularly skip breakfast
Going hungry first thing means that, by mid-morning, your body is craving a pick-me-up - often found in crisps and sweets. This means that essential iron, calcium and vitamins that could have been grabbed at breakfast are being replaced with unhealthy fats and sugars.

nearly 50% of you are having fizzy drinks every day
You could try swapping some of your fizzy drinks for water.

10% eat fast food at least once a day
You lead busy lives but this means it's vital to eat regular and balanced meals, including breakfast, to give you the energy you need.

83% aren't eating the recommended five portions of fruit and veg a day
Try snacking on fruit instead of crisps and chocolates and you will soon get your portions up!

33% argue with your parents over what you eat