Nutrition for Teens

The teens are a time of rapid growth and development. Usually appetites match needs, but some teens are attracted to fad diets.

• Teenagers express their newly found independence by giving up some of the family food habits and developing their own style
• Education and information about the best choices of snacks and takeaways are important at this time
• Remember it is the total diet that counts. Teenagers will eat some of the high-fat snacks and takeaways, but encourage them to balance these with foods from the Healthy Diet Pyramid
• Emphasise good food as part of a healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and avoiding cigarettes and the abuse of other drugs
• Discuss alcohol. The most common cause of accidents and death in this age group is the abuse of alcohol
• Encourage teenagers to enjoy non-alcoholic drinks at their parties and gatherings

For more information Nutrition Australia recommends

Food Quick Cheap and Healthy

Healthy Food for Families

Eating Activity Sport and You

Students Guide to Studying Nutrition

Eating the Vegetarian Way