WHAT ARE THE NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ADOLESCENCE

 

The period between childhood and youth is called teenage. This period of transition from childhood to adulthood is also known as Adolescence. During this time physical,  bio-chemical,  and emotional changes has been accelerated.  Our weight, height and even our physical structure also changes.  This is a time period between 12-18 years of age. 

The extremely rapid and sudden increase in growth rate during this time is known as growth spurt. The growth spurt of boys is slower  than that of the girls. Several physical changes occur in our body followed by several physiological changes as well. The limitation of menstrual bleeding in adolescent girl is a significant change that create a tremendous nutritional demand. 

Just have a look : physical changes in puberty

The Nutritional requirements of adolescents:-

v Energy: As growth rate increases, the calorie requirement also increases. Girls generally require fewer calories, although individual demands vary. The appetite usually in boys, increases and so it is usually not difficult to meet the high calorie demand.

v Protein: The protein needs represent 11-12% of energy intake. The protein intake usually exceeds 1gm/kg body weight. This meets growth needs and for the pubertal change in both the sexes and for developing the muscle mass in boys. The protein requirement in girls, between 10-12 years, is higher compared to boys. High biological value protein should be given.

v Fats: Essential fatty acids should be given to the adolescent which should provide at least 3%. The desirable level for the visible fat intake for adolescents is 20 gm/day. α – linoleic acid is beneficial to reduce abdominal pain during menstrual periods and helps to relax muscles.

v Minerals: Calcium and phosphorus ratio of 1:1 should be maintained. Bone growth especially in boys, requires large amount of calcium. Iron is needed for blood formation. Girls loses about 0-5 mg iron/day during menstruation and for this iron supply is necessary through the diet. Zinc is also necessary for pubertal growth.

v Vitamins: All the fat soluble vitamins are required according to the RDA. Vit D is especially required for skeletal growth and calcium metabolism. The ‘calorigenic vitamins’ i.e  B_1, B₂  and niacin have to be supplied according to the energy intake. Folic acid and vit.B₁₂ are needed for DNA synthesis since there is rapid cell division in adolescence due to the growth spurt. Tissue growth requires amino acids for which protein metabolism is needed. B₆ helps in protein metabolism and also helps to reduce premenstrual stress in adolescent girls.

Other general dietary intake:

·       A well balanced nutritious food should be given to the adolescent which does not contain other excess or deficient quantities of nutrient, to prevent obesity and underweight respectively.

·       Regular meal time should be maintained and skipping of meal time should be avoided.

·       Junk and fast foods should be avoided.

·       Foods should be made attractive and appealing.

·       Media influence and emotions should not guide food intake.

·       Physical activity should be encouraged.

Eating Disorders of adolescent:

1.   Anorexia Nervosa: It is a condition marked by extremely low intake of food. It is an eating disorders that make people lose more weight that considered healthy for their age and height. People with this disorders may have an intense fear of weight gain. It is mostly common in the adolescent girls.

                                  

                                                                                

Signs and symptoms:

·       Rapid loss of weight

·       Loss of menstrual periods

·       Nausea, vomiting, constipation or bloating after eating normal amount of food.

·       Lanugo (hair on arms, legs, cheeks)

·       Refusing to eat, denying hunger

·       Avoiding social invitations to avoid food

·       Depression, mood swings

·       Low self-esteem

·       Fatigue and Weakness

·       Obsessed with exercising

Prevention and Treatment: Since this is mainly a physiological problem, generally nutrition counselling is necessary. Correct ideas of food should be given to the patient and correct selection of food should be taught. Anorexia, bulimia and binge-eating can only be corrected if the patient himself/herself is motivated.

2.    Bulimia Nervosa: In this condition the person binges on food followed by purging or consuming a large amount of food in a short time followed by an attempt to rid oneself of the food consumed (purging), typically by vomiting, taking or laxative or diuretic and/or excessive exercise.

                                                                 

Signs and symptoms:

·       Weight fluctuations

·       Calluses (Calcified tissue on the back of hands)

·       Dental enamel, erosion and cavities

·       Fatigue or Weakness

·       Irregular menstrual periods

·       Hiding eating from other

·       Avoiding social invitations

·       Depression, loneliness, feeling of emptiness

·       Alcohol or drug abuse.

3.   Binge Eating Disorders: This is characterized by sudden periods of excessive eating followed by periods of extreme dieting. Usually the patients are obese.

Signs and Symptoms:

·       Trying to avoid physical activities

·       Depression, Loneliness, guilt emotion problems

·       Feelings out of control when eating and being unable to stop

·       Being preoccupied with food

·       Having low self-esteem

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