During adolescence there a high incidence of nutritional deficiencies and poor eating habits. This may lead to consequences in later years including osteoporosis, obesity, hyperlipedemia, sexual maturation delays, and final adult height. In addition, the development of eating disorders is very prominent during this period.  Nutritional surveys have incicated that the highest prevalence of nutritional deficiencies occur during adoleschence

It is important for the pediatrician to be familiar with normal daily requirements and be able to detect when there are deviations. A diet and nutritional history is necessary while assessing adolescents at their checkups. Evaluation of adolescent nutrition should include:

1. Weighing and measuring and comparing to previous values. Make note of any weight loss, excessive gains in weight, or failure to grow.
2. Amount of physical activity
3. Quality, quantity, and number of meals per day.
4. Sexual maturation and menstruation history.

1. Eating disorders
2. Chronic medical conditions
3. Use of alcohol or drugs
4. Strict Vegan diet
5. Low socio-economic status

1. Calories- females require 2200 Cal./day and males 2500-3000. 
2. Protein- females 0.8g/kg./d males 1.0g/kg./d (30% of caloric intake)  Mody teens meet or exceed this level, including vegetarians. 
3. Fats- 30% of daily calories. Most adolescents get enough fats through fast foods and fried foods. Teenagers should be taught to read labels and learn about fat content of foods.
4. Calcium- The majority of bone mass deposition occurs during adolescence. Daily requirement 1500 mg./day. Good sources include calcium enriched orange juice, green leafy vegetables, sardines, soymilk, and tofu. Antacid tablets contain 300 mg of calcium are good dietary supplements. 
5. Iron- requirements are high during adolescence because of growth. Requirement higher in menstruating females. Good sources include meats, green vegetable, cereals fortified with iron, fish, poultry, eggs, and nuts. 
6. Zinc- 12-15 mgs./day. Found in meats, eggs,seafood, and dairy products
7. Fiber-20-25 grams/day. Found in fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and cereals.
8. Vitamins-most commonly adolescents are deficient A, B6 ,E. D, C, and folic acid. Usually adolescents who are eating normal daily requirements of nutrients, their diets were not deficient in vitamins. If not getting daily requirements, should get vitamin supplements.

1. Wahl, Richard. Nutrition in the Adolescent. Pediatric Annals Feb. 1999
2. Venkdeswaran R. Nutrition for Youth. Clinical Family Practice Dec. 2000 2(4) 791-822
3. Wang W. Diet in Mid-puberty and sedentary activity in pre-puberty predicting peak bone mass. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 77(2) 495 2003