Dr. Murali Gopal
Senior Paediatrician & Paediatric Pulmonologist
MCR: 57489
MBBS, DCH(UK), MRCPCH(UK), FRCPCH(UK), CCT Paediatrics (UK), Fellow in Paediatric Pulmonology (Aus), Allergology (Ind)
Teenagers are still growing. Adult dieting plans, crash diets, and unsupervised supplements may be unsafe during adolescence.
What is adolescent nutrition?
Adolescent nutrition supports rapid growth, puberty, bone health, menstrual health, sports performance, and mental wellbeing. Diet quality, sleep, and activity are all important.
Common patterns
- Appetite may increase during growth spurts.
- Girls may have higher iron needs after periods start.
- Irregular meals, dieting, or high junk-food intake may affect energy, concentration, and mood.
What influences eating?
- Peer pressure, body image, exams, late sleep, and screen time can influence food choices.
- Skipping meals and frequent fast food can reduce protein, iron, calcium, and micronutrient intake.
- Excessive dieting or supplements can be harmful.
Home support
Keep the conversation respectful. Discuss strength, energy, health, and wellbeing rather than appearance or blame.
- Encourage regular meals with protein-containing foods and calcium-rich foods.
- Include fruits, vegetables, pulses, millets or grains, and safe non-vegetarian foods where used.
- Avoid crash diets, unsupervised gym supplements, fat burners, and energy drinks.
- Support adequate sleep, movement, and a calm family food environment.
Red flags / when to seek medical review
Seek review urgently or promptly if these occur:
- Rapid weight loss, fainting, missed periods due to under-eating, vomiting after meals, or excessive exercise.
- Severe fatigue, pallor, breathlessness, or suspected anaemia.
- Low mood, self-harm thoughts, severe body-image distress, binge eating, or secretive eating.
Important facts for parents
- Protein powders are not a substitute for balanced meals unless medically advised.
- Iron and calcium are important, but supplementation should be doctor-guided.
- Avoid public comments about weight or body shape; they can worsen distress.
Medical disclaimer
General education only This guide does not replace medical consultation, diagnosis, examination, or individualized treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. Seek urgent care for red-flag symptoms. Final clinical use requires clinician review.
References
- Indian Academy of Pediatrics parent nutrition guidance.
- ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition. Dietary Guidelines for Indians, 2024.
- World Health Organization adolescent nutrition resources.
- Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne. Kids Health Info nutrition resources.
Last reviewed: 27 May 2026.
Medical review and references
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