Hi Raygene! I myself am over the average weight of the normal 8th grade girl. I'd like to tell you about my dad. He always ate junk food and the bad stuff with major calories. His doctor told him that if he didn't change his eating habits he could die of a heart attack. So for the past 5 months he has lost 25 pounds and is much more healthy. The point is you should try to gradually eat healthier and exercise before you have to so fast that your life is literally on the line. I am learning from my dad's influence. c-ya