How can I talk to my ds about healthy eating?

[NicolaWorkHardPartyHarder]

My ds is 16, 6",a few lbs overweight but nothing that affects his overall health. He is v. lazy and does not really exercise. (and I don't want to have to force him...). He has always been on the 'larger' side.He is constantly eating! I provide healthy, filling, nutritious meals and snacks, but he obviously has access to a wide variety of junk food. He is a very happy, charmin, laidback boy and has never been concerned by his weight, and is not bothered if any of his friends or his twin sister teases him about it. I realise that this isn't a problem now, but I worry that if he keeps on going like this (no exercise- lots of junk food) he'll have health problems in later life. I want to encourage to eat more healthily without nagging...any help would be appreciated. Thanks. Sorry if I sound as if i'm overreacting...

It's really hard isn't it - I have the same with mine and spots, he is covered in them, but it doesn't bother him in the slightest so I don't want to make a big deal of it and make him self-conscious. Have you thought about maybe doing an exercise regime that could maybe involve all the family? We drag ours out to walk the dog even when he's not keen, because we all do it. Or something you could do with him, like go swimming or cycling, and be a bit sneaky and make out you are on a new fitness kick but you really need the encouragement? I'm only suggesting these sorts of things as it sounds like just talking to him hasn't worked so far. Problem is he sounds like an intelligent lad, and if he's making educated choices - albeit bad ones - it's hard to break that. What about a Wii fit as a last resort if you can't get him out of the house?

Sorry I was away from mn for so long! Just wanted to say thanks, such great ideas, have been trying to fit them in around busy work schedule

Have a chat with him about balancing his food. Refined carbs (white bread, cake, biscuits) and sugar will keep him running to the fridge or takeaway all day long. Get him on plenty of meat, low GI bread and pasta. Try and lower the sugars ( it is hidden in everything so look at the labels).

Good carbs are jacket spuds, brown rice/basmati, wholewheat pasta and bread in moderation.

Or try and get him to exercise.

How is he funding the junk food, and how does he get around once he's out of the house?
I have a 17 year old who has to walk 4 miles a day, and who has a limited income. So although he might want to live in cake, he can't actually afford it.