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Healthy eating during puberty is important because changes in the body during this period influence the nutritional and dietary needs of a person. Along with physical changes and as they mature, teens become more independent.
And that independence includes the choices they make about the types of foods they eat. For many teenagers, meal convenience is a priority, and they may consume too much of the wrong types of food.
Those wrong things include sugary beverages, fast-food, and other processed foods. Up next we’re going to share some easy and healthy eating tips for teens so that convenience and nutrition are on the same page.
Eat Breakfast
Breakfast is the most essential meal, even if it’s probably the most challenging one for teens. If you don’t eat lunch frequently and you wait until after school or for dinner to eat, breakfast is even more necessary.
Eating breakfast serves to jump-start your appetite and to reduce cravings for sweets during the day. A morning meal also provides more energy for you and will help you concentrate better at school or work.
Eat something with whole grains and protein, instead of a pop tart or sugary cereal.
Reduce Sugary Drinks Intake
Many people recognize that soda is high in sugar, but don’t realize that other drinks can be just as bad. In one serving of drinks like Gatorade, and even milk tea you have more sugar than you should consume in a whole day?
Try halving the number of sugary drinks you consume. If you drink two a day, cut down to one, rather than the second, just drink water!
Instead of something filled with sugar, go for unsweetened tea, low-fat milk, or another nutritious alternative to water if you want a treat.
Avoid Skipping Meals
It’s not healthy for the body to go without meals for a long period. Organize your day and toss in your bag or purse an apple, banana, granola bar, or some trail mix. This will keep your body fed for the entire day.
Breakfast is especially important as it also boosts academic performance and helps to maintain a healthy weight.
Eat A Balanced Diet Without Completely Denying Yourself
The most healthy meal might not be a burger, but you don’t have to give it up entirely! When you generally make healthy choices, you can pop in one of your unhealthy favorites once in a while too.
Go for a veggie-loaded burger rather than patties. If you grab a pizza slice for lunch, eat an apple, too, then you’re going to hit a fruit serving and fulfill your cravings.
Fill In Missing Food Groups
Generally, teens have enough carbohydrates and protein, but they do not consume all their fruits and vegetables. It may be difficult to get these food groups without real planning.
But strive to serve at least one meal daily that has your missing food groups in it. Go for carrots and celery dipped in hummus or add vegetables to a whole wheat pita wrap if you don’t like salad.
Bottom Line
All in all, teens appear to struggle to achieve their prescribed daily quantities of fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Moreover, heavily processed foods and those that are high in sugar, sodium, and saturated fats are overeaten.
Healthy eating is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle and is something to be learned at a young age. The above are some general tips for you to become and stay healthy.
If you’re a parent, before making any dietary adjustments or putting your teen on a diet, it’s crucial to discuss your teen’s eating habits with their healthcare provider.