Healthy People

Of course fruit and vegetables are an essential source of healthy vitamins and minerals, and iron is important for the production of red blood cells. So what does this mean for parents, who may feel they don’t have much control over their teenager’s food intake while they are at school, clubs or out with friends?

Many teens are at an age where they want to make some of their own choices about food – so helping them make responsible decisions by providing as much information as possible on the many benefits of eating healthily could make an impression. After this, it should hopefully become easier to encourage them to eat more fruit, vegetables and iron-rich meals: which should include ingredients such as meat, fish eggs and nuts. Discussing the importance of good nutrition may also help persuade teenagers to cut down on saturated fats – in turn reducing the risk of illness or weight gain, which could reduce the body confidence of teenagers with low self esteem.

Why not try providing some healthy options for treats?  Our recipes for smoothies and apple flapjacks can work some additional fruit into the diet, and would make a great swap for a milkshake or a bag of sweets. Finding healthy replacements for foods high in saturated fats could even uncover some delicious news ways for teenagers to enjoy their 5 a day!

Join the discussion!

What are your thoughts on the recent reports on teenage nutrition? Maybe your healthy eating habits as a teenager have served you well throughout life, or you’re having trouble encouraging your child to eat enough fruit – whatever your opinion is on this topic, we’d love to hear it.