Healthy Foods for Teenagers

Teenagers tend to eat a lot of junk food while neglecting the healthy foods their bodies need. The constant advertising for potato chips and sweet, sugary snacks abound in our world of technology, but it's important to remember how significant healthy food can be. The USDA's dietary guidelines recommend healthy foods for teenagers and how much they should consume.

Carbohydrates

Good carbohydrates should make up the greatest portion of an active teenagers diet. Whole grain breads, pasta, potatoes and cereals are all good sources of carbohydrates. Teenagers should eat between six and eight servings of good carbohydrates each day.

Vegetables

Vegetables contain many vitamins and nutrients teens need to ensure a healthy diet. Teenagers should eat at least four portions of vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, peas, green beans or Brussels sprouts each day.

Fruits

Fruit is the best healthy snack food for teenagers. It contains many essential vitamins and minerals to ensure healthy growth. Serve at least three portions of healthy fruits such as apples, oranges, strawberries or pears every day.

Dairy

Calcium is an essential nutrient needed for healthy bone growth. Dairy products such as milk, hard cheese and yogurt all contain large amounts of the calcium needed for a teenager's healthy diet. Allow your teenager three to four servings of dairy each day.

Protein

Protein is important for building strong muscles. Foods high in protein are meats, poultry, fish, eggs and nuts. Teenagers should eat two to three servings of protein per day.

Limits

Teenagers should not eat excessive amounts of foods that are high in fat. Foods such as potato chips, ice cream and cake should be limited to a once a day treat.

Considerations

For the teenager who has a difficult time eating healthy foods, you might want to add a nutritional supplement such as Ensure or Boost to her diet to guarantee she is getting essential vitamins and nutrients.