HURTFUL FOOD HABITS

Along with physical changes, teens become more independent as they grow. Dietary options are one of the first decisions teens start making on their own. Of course some teens tend to make poor food choices. 

• Skipping breakfast

Breakfast is an important meal of the day as it helps to ensure daily nutrient needs are being met. It also improves school performance and helps maintain a healthy weight. More than half of male teens and more than two-thirds of female teens do not eat breakfast on a regular basis. 

• Increased foods from the 'other' food group

This includes foods such as fats and oils, soft drinks, snack foods, and desserts. People should eat the least amount of servings from this group. About 27% to 33% of energy intake for teens is from the 'other' food group. This is of concern as these foods are often high in fat and calories and low in vitamins and minerals. 

• Increased eating outside the home

Eating outside the home has increased, however the concern is the majority of foods consumed in restaurants are considered to be 'fast food'. Fast foods are generally high in fat and calories. 

• Increased soft drink consumption

A study looking at American youths aged 6 to 17 found soft drink consumption increased from 37% in 1978 to 56% in 1998. The increase in soft drink consumption could be a linked to the increase in restaurant eating.