Write a short note on nutritional need of adolescents
Answers
Answer:
Nutrition in adolescence is very important since this period of human's life
Explanation:
1)Growth and Development in Adolescence
Adolescence is a significant period for physical growth and sexual maturation. Nutrition being an important determinant of physical growth of adolescents is an important area that needs attention. Growth retardation is one of the most important health concerns for adolescents and their parents as well as health care workers.
2)Major components of food
Major components of food include protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins which perform different functions.
Function of various food components
1.Proteins are of greatest importance in nutrition. Proteins are required for bodybuilding and help in repair and maintenance of body tissues.
2.Fats are high-energy foods and a source of energy. They also make the food more palatable and provide fat-soluble vitamins.
3.Carbohydrates form the major component of most diets and are the main source of energy.
4.Vitamins and minerals are required in small quantities. They do not yield energy but enable the body to use other nutrients and also play in important role in growth, repair and regulation of vital body functions.
3)Factors influencing nutrition of adolescents
1.Lack of knowledge in the family and community about the importance of nutrition during adolescence
2.Lack of food because of socio-economic circumstances
3.Inequitable distribution of food in the family wherein girls being denied nutritious food
4.Poor dietary intake of food and vegetables rich in iron
5.Poor bioavailability of iron in the diet
4)Factors influencing nutrition of adolescents
1.Lack of knowledge in the family and community about the importance of nutrition during adolescence
2.Lack of food because of socio-economic circumstances
3.Inequitable distribution of food in the family wherein girls being denied nutritious food
4.Poor dietary intake of food and vegetables rich in iron
5.Poor bioavailability of iron in the diet
5)Eating right and nutritious food during adolescence
1.Food selection is based mainly on availability, convenience and time, rather than food value
2.Influence of peers, mass media, prevalent body image
3.Personal self-esteem and body image guide the eating behaviour
4.Missing meals and snacking are very common
6)Definition of Overweight and Obesity
Overweight : A person may be overweight from extra muscle, bone, or water, as well as from having too much fat. Both terms mean that a person's weight is higher than what is thought to be healthy for his or her height.
Obesity : Obesity is a state in which there is a generalized accumulation of excess fat in adipose tissue in the body leading to more than 20% of desirable weight. Obesity has several adverse health effects and can even lead to premature death. Obesity leads to high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, gallbladder stone and certain types of cancer.
Factors responsible for obesity
Inactive life style
Gene and family history
Junk food and over eating
Psychological
Environmental causes
Diseases
Drugs
Tobacco and alcohol