3.4 Nutrition and health during adolescence

Adolescence brings unique nutritional needs and health challenges. Teens require specific nutrients to fuel growth, but many struggle with obesity or eating disorders. Balanced diets and understanding nutritional requirements are crucial for healthy development during this transformative period.

Physical activity offers numerous benefits for teens, from improved cardiovascular health to better mental well-being. However, substance use poses significant risks, affecting brain development and increasing addiction potential. Promoting healthy habits while addressing substance abuse is essential for adolescent health.

Nutritional Requirements and Health Concerns

Nutritional requirements for adolescent growth

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• Macronutrients fuel growth and development
  • Carbohydrates provide energy for physical activities and brain function (whole grains, fruits)
  • Proteins support muscle growth and tissue repair (lean meats, legumes)
  • Fats aid hormone production and nutrient absorption (avocados, nuts)
• Micronutrients essential for various bodily functions
  • Calcium strengthens bones and teeth during rapid growth (dairy products, leafy greens)
  • Iron prevents anemia and supports increased blood volume (red meat, spinach)
  • Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption and bone health (fortified milk, sunlight exposure)
  • Zinc promotes proper growth and sexual maturation (oysters, pumpkin seeds)
• Caloric intake meets increased energy demands
  • Growth spurts require higher calorie consumption to support rapid physical changes
• Hydration maintains bodily functions and athletic performance
  • Adequate water intake prevents dehydration and supports metabolism (8-10 glasses daily)

Prevalence of adolescent nutritional issues

• Obesity rates continue to rise among teenagers
  • Prevalence varies by region and socioeconomic status (≈20% in US adolescents)
  • Contributing factors include sedentary lifestyles (excessive screen time) and high-calorie diets (fast food consumption)
  • Health consequences lead to increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular issues (hypertension)
• Eating disorders affect a significant portion of adolescents
  • Anorexia nervosa characterized by extreme food restriction
    • Prevalence higher in females (0.3-0.4% of adolescents)
    • Physical effects include severe weight loss and hormonal imbalances
  • Bulimia nervosa involves binge eating followed by purging behaviors
    • Affects 1-2% of adolescents, predominantly females
    • Health risks include electrolyte imbalances and dental erosion
  • Binge eating disorder marked by recurrent episodes of overeating
    • Prevalence around 1-3% of adolescents
    • Long-term implications include obesity and metabolic disorders

Physical Activity and Substance Use

Benefits of physical activity for adolescents

• Cardiovascular health improves heart and lung function (increased endurance)
• Musculoskeletal development strengthens bones and muscles
  • Bone density increases, reducing future osteoporosis risk
  • Muscle strength and flexibility enhance overall physical performance
• Mental health benefits include stress reduction and improved self-esteem
• Weight management prevents obesity and related health issues
• Social development fostered through team sports (leadership skills, cooperation)
• Cognitive function enhanced, leading to better academic performance (improved concentration)
• Establishment of lifelong habits promotes long-term health and wellness

Health risks of adolescent substance use

• Alcohol consumption affects brain development and increases addiction risk
  • Impaired judgment leads to risky behaviors (drunk driving, unprotected sex)
• Tobacco use causes nicotine addiction and long-term health issues
  • Respiratory problems develop (chronic bronchitis, emphysema)
  • Cardiovascular risks increase (heart disease, stroke)
• Marijuana impacts cognitive function and may lead to dependency
  • Short-term memory and learning abilities affected
• Prescription drug abuse carries opioid addiction risks
  • Neurocognitive effects include impaired decision-making and altered brain chemistry
• Illicit drugs pose both short-term hazards and long-term addiction potential
  • Immediate risks include overdose and adverse reactions
  • Chronic use leads to organ damage and mental health disorders
• Social and academic consequences manifest in various ways
  • Impaired relationships with family and peers
  • Decreased school performance and increased dropout rates
• Legal implications of substance use include potential criminal records