Nutritional Issues Of Teens

The teenage years are a time of growth and change. While teenagers are facing new issues socially, they are also facing changes in nutritional needs, diet and body image. Being aware of these issues, in addition to proper diet and lifestyle choices, will help teens stay healthy and active.

Weight

In 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 18 percent of U.S. adolescents were obese, and even more were at risk for obesity. Because obese children are more likely to become obese adults, implementation of sound nutrition and lifestyle habits during the teenage years can help prevent complications later in life. Although weight loss is recommended in some cases, teens should focus on increasing physical activity and eating a well-rounded diet. Diets that are too restrictive can be harmful psychologically and may encourage disordered eating.

Sports Nutrition

Proper nutrition is necessary for optimal performance during athletic events. Not only must teen athletes eat for normal growth, but they must also eat to nourish their bodies during intense physical exercise. Teen athletes often need extra calories and protein, and may have increased needs for B vitamins that are involved with protein metabolism. Generally, teens participating in sports can meet all of their nutrient needs by consuming a well-balanced diet, rich in whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean protein and whole fruits and vegetables. Teen athletes should eat post-workout meals within an hour after the event, and at least 50 percent of total caloric intake should come from carbohydrates.

Eating Disorders

Disordered body image and low self-esteem are common issues in teenagers, and serious cases may lead to eating disorders or other self-destructive behaviors. More than 75 percent of eating disorders occur during the teenage years, the most common disorders being anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and eating disorder not otherwise specified, which includes binge eating disorder. Eating disorders can inhibit optimal growth in teens and lead to complications such as cardiac arrhythmia, decreased bone mass and brain tissue loss. Early diagnosis and aggressive treatment for the disorder are both important in teens and are associated with improved outcomes.

Nutrient Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies often occur in teens, even when they meet caloric needs. Typical Western diets for teens often fall short in calcium, iron and vitamins A, C and D. Calcium and vitamin D, found in milk and dairy products, are especially important for teens to build bone mass. Green leafy vegetables and meat are good sources of iron, an important nutrient for menstruating females, and vegetables and fruits are abundant in vitamins A and C. Overall, eating a well-balanced diet with foods from all four food groups will provide all of the needed nutrients for optimal teen growth.