Adolescent / Teen Nutrition (13-19 Years)
Teens grow rapidly and become more independent on their food choices. However, family continues to play a crucial role in shaping ideas around body image and food. Here are some tips for families to support teens in developing skills to keep a healthy lifestyle for life.
Get teens cooking! Preparing meals teaches teenagers important planning and food skills. See here for the article.
- Despite their growing independence, family meals continue to be important for teenagers. Teens who eat with their families do better in all ways (nutritionally, socially, and academically). Turn off the TV and use mealtimes to communicate and connect as a family.
- As children grow into teens, their bodies change and they may become more preoccupied with their appearance, feeling a need to "fit in". It is important to promote a healthy body image from an early age. Explain that bodies come in all shapes and talk about the unrealistic body images in the media. Celebrate your child's uniqueness and achievements. Be a positive role model: only make positive comments about your own body and have zero tolerance for put downs in your family. For more information see Teen Talk - Body Image. Teens may also become obsessed with their food, eating, and body size, which can lead to disordered eating. If you are concerned about your teen's eating habits, speak to your physician or a dietitian and check out When Eating and Weight Are Concerns: A Glimpse at Eating Disorders.
- Participation in physical activity and sports helps teens stay healthy, build confidence and gain self-esteem. For some physical activity recommendations check out the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines. Protein supplements are common among teens, but not required. For more information see this article How Much Protein do Teens Need?
Energy drinks are beverages that claim to stimulate energy when consumed. These drinks contain large amounts of caffeine and other ingredients that claim to be energy inducing. These drinks are not safe for teenagers. For more information see Health Link BC and Health Canada.
