Abstract

Adolescence is one of the most vigorous and compound change in the lifespan. Adolescence, as a changing period between childhood and adulthood is linked with drastic change and development of the emotional, physical and cognitive functions. Eating behaviors and nutritional health can markedly be affected by the physical, developmental, and social changes that occur during adolescence. Poor eating behavior includes meal skipping, snacking sugary foods, soft drinks and sweet, fast foods and increase intake of saturated fats among adolescents. In developed and developing countries several studies have shown that dietary practices of students are pathetic due to high intake of fatty and carbohydrate rich foods and lower intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, milk and milk products. In modern countries, major cause of mortality and morbidity even in younger age groups are chronic diseases. Healthy eating habits are essential for students to achieve academic potential, physical and intellectual development, life-long strength and comfort. Nutritional knowledge is one of the key factors for the choice and eating of suitable diet which increase the nutritional status of an individual.

Keywords

nutrition, adolescence, eating habits, cognition, knowledge, requirements