Adolescent Nutrition

Abstract
Over the past decade, adolescent health and nutrition issues have begun to receive increased national attention. Like many adults, adolescents consume higher than recommended amounts of dietary fat, especially saturated fat and sodium, and inadequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Low intake of calcium and iron-rich foods are of additional concern among adolescent girls. Other nutrition-related concerns among youth include the increasing prevalence of overweight and the use of unhealthy weight loss methods. These and other issues, such as adolescent pregnancy and chronic health conditions, are discussed. Strategies to promote healthy eating pattems among youth are presented.