1. Facing the Obesity Epidemic
The prevalence of child and adolescent obesity has skyrocketed over the past 10 to 15 years. Not only are kids and teens getting heavier, but they're developing "adult" diseases, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Having more dispensable income means more cash to spend on processed, calorie-dense foods. As computer, television and video game technology improves and becomes more widely available, teens become less physically active. Parents must educate their kids about healthy habits, and then practice what they preach.
2. A Common Denominator: Not-So-Sweet Beverages
It seems that teenagers have a least one thing in common with their adult counterparts: They obtain a large portion of their calories from sweetened beverages. According to researchers from Wayne State University School of Nursing, soft drink consumption has increased three-fold over the past 20 years, and many kids and teens drink soft drinks at least once a day. This increase in soda consumption can lead to health issues such as insulin resistance, and it may encourage a greater intake of other sugary foods.
3. A Healthy Diet Starts with Breakfast
The benefits of eating breakfast are well-known -- more energy throughout the day, more stable blood sugar levels and improved school and work performance. However, a healthy, balanced breakfast can do even more. Teenagers who consume a morning meal containing whole grains, fruit and low-fat dairy products tend to continue healthy habits throughout the day. Compared to teens who eat a less nutrient-dense breakfast or none at all, healthy breakfast eaters consume more complex carbohydrates, fresh produce and low-fat dairy products. They also eat less dietary fat.
4. Evening Calorie Overload
All too often, teenagers will skip breakfast or grab something processed, like a breakfast pastry, as they're running out the door. Growing school populations have fueled the need for additional lunch periods during the school day. That means some teens may eat lunch as early as 10:00 a.m. or as late as 2:00 p.m. These odd lunch hours, along with plenty of "junk food" alternatives, means fewer teens are sitting down to the traditional, balanced lunch. Dinner and snacks make up the bulk the teenage diet, which makes it not much different from the diet of many adults.
5. Charting Fast Food Habits
Teenagers compose a large percentage of the customer base for many fast-food restaurants. Many teens frequent these establishments several times each week and spend billions of dollars annually. Popular fast food choices include burgers, French fries, pizza and tacos. All of these typically contain excess calories, unhealthy fats and refined carbohydrates with little nutritional value. Fast food restaurants are notorious "up-sellers," often promoting "super-sized" portions and "value meals" that further up the calorie ante. Healthier fast food choices include salads, grilled chicken sandwiches and yogurt parfaits.
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