1. Adolescence is a stage of rapid growth and development.
2. Balanced diet is very much important during adolescence. Balanced diet includes proteins, carbohydrates, fats and vitamins in requisite proportions.
3. A very good amount of proteins and carbohydrates is necessary during this growth period. Apart from that, adolescents need the following dietary components.
Minerals:
1. Since there is an increase in skeletal mass and blood volume during adolescence, the body needs calcium, phosphorus and iron.
Calcium:
1. Calcium intake needs to be increased to prevent osteoporosis in later life.
2. It is present in milk and milk products or other equivalents.
Iodine:
1. It helps to prevent thyroid gland related diseases. Iron:
1. Iron builds blood and iron-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, jaggery, meat, dates, fish, chicken, citrus, Indian gooseberry (Nelli) and whole pulses are good for adolescents.
2. Lack of iron in the diet results in anemia.
3. In boys, iron deficiency occurs due to muscle spurt whereas in girls it occurs due to menstruation in addition to the muscular growth.
