Puberty is often a difficult time for teen girls regarding their body image and body weight. Fat can develop in the hips, thighs and breasts from an onslaught of hormones. To make matters worse, teen girls and their friends often frequent fast food restaurants and eat calorie-laden foods like potato chips, French fries and pizza. Nutrition.com.sg advises that it is best to learn how to eat healthy at a younger age so that you do not get in the habit of following fad diets or severely restricting calories, which will only cause more weight gain in the long run.
Protein
Youngwomenshealth.org reports that protein is needed in almost every function of the body, including to build and repair muscles, make hair and skin, have a healthy heart and brain, and to maintain a healthy immune system. Amino acids make up protein; while many amino acids can be made in the body, there are nine essential amino acids that must be obtained from food. Additionally, protein-based foods provide the body with other essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, iron and magnesium. Examples of healthy proteins are chicken, turkey, eggs, beef, fish, pork and dairy products.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are often a source of confusion for those wanting to watch their weight. This can be especially so for teen girls who read a lot of fashion and fitness industry magazines. Betterhealthusa.com explains that carbohydrates are actually the body's source of energy. In addition, they play a part in having many major body functions work properly, including your nervous system, muscles and many organs. There are two types of carbohydrates; simple and complex. Simple carbs include foods such as sugar, white flour and white rice, and should be avoided as much as possible. Teen girls however should consume complex carbohydrates, as they provide fiber and many essential vitamins and minerals. Examples of complex carbs are fruits, vegetables, whole-grains and brown rice.
Fat
Fats are another food group that cause confusion to those wanting to lose weight. Many believe that eating fat will make them fat. However, all fats are not created equal. Betterhealthusa.com reports that trans and saturated fats should be avoided, but poly and monounsaturated fats that contain contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are actually necessary foods for proper nutrition, and they should be consumed by teens. These fats can be found in foods such as olives, olive oil, peanuts, peanut butter, salmon, and avocados. Poly and monounsaturated fats help your body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K, help with digestion, and help your body fight off heart disease.
Member Comments