ADOLESCENCE

During the 5-7 years of pubertal development, adolescents gain about 20% of adult height and 50% of adult weight. Most of the body organs double in size, and almost half of total bone growth occurs. In this stage, males now put on twice as much muscle as females, and females gain proportionally more fat. In adolescent girls, an increasing amount of fat is being stored under the skin, particularly in the abdominal area. The male also experiences a greater increase in bone mass than does the female.

Nutrition During Adolescence

Male Need more kcal, protein, calcium, iron and zinc for muscle and bone development. More likely to than girls to get sufficient nutrients. Female

Need increased in iron due to the onset of menstruation. When they feel that they are overweight they tend to modify their food choices.

Nutrition During Adolescence

Male May take nutrition supplements and fill up on protein in hopes of becoming more muscular. the males for both age groups have higher energy allowance than female because of more intense physical activities. Female

 The diet of adolescents must be high in all protective nutrients especially protein, calcium and iron to meet the increased demands for accelerated growth and increase in bone and muscle mass. Aligaen and Florencios (1980) study among households in Metro Manila showed that adolescents had the poorest nutrient consumption compared with other members of the household

Menu Planning for Adolescents

1. Emphasize complex carbohydrates such as assorted breads, rolls, cereals, fruits, etc. 2. Offer well-trimmed lean beef, poultry, and fish. 3. Low-fat and skim milk need to be offered at all meals. 4. Offer margarine. 5. Have nutritious choices available for hungry onthe-run adolescents looking for a snack. 6. Offer foods rich in iron, folate and calcium.

Concern over Teenagers Nutritional Status:

This is a period marked by a level of physical and emotional growth that often results in stress and anxiety, which in turn influence physiologic, psychological and social behaviour, all of which affect nutritional behaviour. Incidence of dietary inadequacies is higher during adolescence, the stage at which the results of lack are far reaching.

Improving the Diet of Teenagers

a. Always take into consideration that he is undergoing complex and interrelated changes both physical and emotional which affect his nutritional behaviour. b. Nutrition Education is an effective method to in still good food habits but it has to be done in such a way that teenagers are reached within the context of the peer groups.

3. The needs and interests of the adolescents can be used as motivating forces towards improving their diet. 4. Integration of nutrition in school curriculum must be flexible and innovative. Adolescents must see the relationship of good nutrition to their whole life.

Signs of Good Nutrition in Teenagers

Shiny and lustrous hair Skin that is smooth, slightly moist and of good color. bright and clear eyes with no fatigue circles under them discoloration

Lips that are of good color Pink gums with no swelling or bleeding. Tongue of good color and without lesions Teeth that are straight and without crowding, clean well-shaped jaw without