Many common health problems can be prevented or alleviated with a healthy diet.  A poor diet can have an injurious impact on health, causing deficiency diseases, health-threatening conditions and common chronic systematic diseases. Today the girls were informed about the importance of a well balanced and healthy diet whilst also being able to enjoy samples of food that fulfill these criteria.

Janet Johnston, a nutritionist, enlightened the girls about why the teenagers’ diet should sustain growth and promote good health.  This is the time when they have begun to develop real independence and are making decisions about the food they eat. Worryingly, the rate of type 2 diabetes is on the rise in adolescents. Fortunately there are plenty of healthy options available at school and home for healthy meals and snacks.



A VARIETY OF THE DELICIOUS SAMPLES OF FOOD PROVIDED FOR LUNCH.



Eating healthy can sometimes be tough. After all, teens are busier and busier with school, part-time jobs and other activities. What a teen eats is not always high on the priority list. While the ill effects may not show now, eventually poor nutrition habits will catch up with teens. In fact, many teens show the effects of less than desirable nutrition practices now, even though they may not know it.

Specific nutrients are especially important during the teen years. Lack of iron can lead to anaemia, and sluggish feelings during the day, negatively affecting alertness in school, at work and even during sporting activities. Iron intake is especially important for teenage girls, as menstruation depletes iron whilst calcium is important for future health. The teen years are ideal for building bone mass with the help of calcium. Brittle bones in the future (osteoporosis) and other health problems can result from a lack of calcium during the teen years. 

Here’s hoping a lesson is learned today and a healthy and happy future is in store for all!