Dietary Guidelines for Adolescents

Definition

Dietary guidelines for adolescents are recommendations that help young people make healthier food choices to support their growth, development, and overall health during puberty.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Dietary guidelines for adolescents are a set of evidence-based nutritional recommendations designed to meet the nutritional needs of individuals aged 10 to 19 years. These guidelines emphasize the importance of a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, while limiting processed foods, added sugars, and excessive salt to support optimal growth and development during adolescence.

Benefits

• Supports healthy growth and development during puberty
• Promotes a healthy weight
• Improves immune function
• Enhances cognitive function and academic performance
• Reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases later in life

Examples

• Encouraging consumption of fruits and vegetables
• Incorporating whole grains like brown rice and whole wheat pasta
• Choosing lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and legumes
• Opting for healthy fats like avocados and nuts

Additional Information

• Importance: Adopting dietary guidelines during adolescence is crucial for establishing lifelong healthy eating habits and supporting the body's increased nutritional demands during this critical growth period.

Related Terms

• Balanced Diet
• Nutrition for Growth
• Healthy Eating Habits
• Adolescent Health

References

• Adolescent Nutrition: A Review of Global Research
• Nutrition in Adolescence: It's Impact on Academic Performance