Adolescents going through puberty need more calories to support the changes that their bodies are experiencing. Since they are old enough to make their own food choices, they usually get these extra calories from foods that are high in fats and sugars, with little nutritional value.

They are becoming more conscious of their bodies which can lead to unhealthy eating habits and eating disorders, and unhealthy skin. Parents should always try to have healthy nutritional foods in stock at home and keep an eye on their adolescents eating habits. Along with calories, calcium is key during this stage, because this is when the majority of bone mass is built.