Adolescent Nutrition

Adolescent nutrition is a key component of health and development. It is important for adolescents to consume a balanced diet, including a variety of foods from all five food groups. A healthy diet should include adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and proteins. Adolescents should also limit the amount of unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium in their diet and get plenty of physical activity. Adequate nutrition helps ensure healthy physical and mental growth, can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and can help maintain a healthy weight. Adolescents who consume a healthy diet feel more energetic, perform better in school, and have fewer health issues. Ensuring adequate nutrition during this age can have long lasting health benefits for adulthood.