According to recent research, one in every five teens ages 12 to 19 is obese. Obesity in the early stages of life is more likely to follow into adulthood.
But it also has an immediate impact. Obese teens may miss out on fun activities, face more health issues, suffer from a lack of confidence and self-esteem, and may even miss out on opportunities to get a job. It is important for teens to eat more fruits and vegetables on a regular basis can improve health and build healthy habits for life. “Fruits and Veggies—More Matters” month will be marked in September.
“Many teens don’t realize that their eating habits are affecting the way they look and feel today,” said Elaine Auld, chief executive officer of the Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE).
“It is important to point out the effects of the food selections they control and the benefits of healthy eating — better skin and hair, more energy, improved sleep, and weight management.” said Auld.
Additional tips include: discussing food selections and how they affect the teen. Find out the barriers to eating a more healthy diet with fruits and vegetables.
Get a baseline. Teens should write down what they have eaten for several days using the notepad on their phones. Then, review the list and have the teens identify one or two small steps for improvement.
Teens can use free online tools that show the nutritional value of foods before they order when eating out. Talk with teens about their daily schedules and meal plans. Discuss how a teen could eat a healthier diet with more fruits and vegetables.
Make it easy. Check how many fruits and vegetables are readily on hand and if there should be a change to shopping habits. Find a farmer’s market nearby. Keep fresh fruit out or cut up vegetables and keep them in ready-to-eat portions.
Add fresh, frozen or canned vegetables to salads, side dishes, pasta sauces, omelets, pizzas or other dishes. If using canned vegetables, select those labeled “reduced sodium,” “low sodium” or “no salt added.”
Involve the teen in meal planning and grocery shopping. Research healthy recipes online together. Ask the teen to help plan family meals for a week. Bring the teen to the grocery store. Ask the teen to select fruit and produce and be open to new and different choices.
Invite the teen to help you in the kitchen. Include your the in meal preparations. Ask them to cut vegetables or fruits for a meal or for quick “grab and go” packets for the entire family. Point out healthier options when eating out. Talk about the healthier options on restaurant menus.
Most importantly, adults should be a role model in what they choose to eat.
