The years between 10 and 18 encompass adolescence, the transitional period from childhood to adulthood. Parents quickly realize that adolescents have increasing food demands, especially during the growth spurt period. Although adolescents have a great need for good nutrition, their diets often do not reflect their requirements. To minimize the risk of developing osteoporosis later in life, all teenagers need to consume enough calcium to attain a bone mass that is as dense as possible. Adolescents would benefit from consuming more nonfat or low-fat milk and milk products, such as skim milk and nonfat yogurt.
Many teenage girls have inadequate iron intakes, especially after they begin menstruating.
Female adolescents need more iron to support formation of new blood to replace what is lost each month. Because adolescents snack often, eating snacks high in calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C is a good way to ensure adequate intakes of these nutrients, which are often low in teenagers' diets. Exercise during adolescence is an important contributor to general good health. For instance, adolescents who exercise regularly have lower serum cholesterol and blood pressure levels and greater aerobic capacity than their sedentary peers. A goal in society must be to help educate and motivate adolescents to have more nutritious diets.