| The physical, social and emotional
changes experienced during adolescence can profoundly impact teens'
nutritional status and eating patterns. Teenagers do not normally
eat enough of the foods (fruits, vegetables, good quality protein)
that constitute a healthy diet, plus the introduction and social
pressure to consume “junk food” increases during these
years. Teenagers require added nutrients to support the adolescent
growth spurt – even greater than an adult. This intensive
growth period brings dramatic increases in height as well as hormonal
changes affecting every body organ, including the brain. Physical
activity also increases with the participation in sports, also
increasing the risk for injury. Iron is especially important with
the increase in lean body mass in boys. The increase in skeletal
mass also boosts teens' requirements for calcium and other bone
building minerals |
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