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Which diet I can follow

Lucky

1 year ago

Which diet I can follow

Food
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Happy Tummy Expert

1 year ago

Dear Lucky, Thank you for the question

Adolescence witnesses speedy physical and emotional development. These changes also demand for specific nutrient requirements. It is very important to consume a well-balanced diversified diet and engage in regular physical activity to support growth, pubertal changes, bone developments and increased haemoglobin production.

Reference ideal body weight and height for 18-year-old male can be considered as 52.7-64.1kg and 164.8-177.8 cm respectively

A balanced diet is one which provides all the nutrients in required amounts and proper proportions. It can easily be achieved through a blend of the four basic food groups. The quantities of foods needed to meet the nutrient requirements vary with age, gender, physiological status and physical activity. A balanced diet should provide around 50-60% of total calories from carbohydrates, preferably from complex carbohydrates, about 10-15% from proteins and 20-30% from both visible and invisible fat.

Here are a few general Dietary guidelines to be considered for adolescent nutrition.

  • Adolescence represents a period of active life, hence no meal of the day should be missed to sustain energy and growth spurts
  • Having a Healthy Diversified Balanced Diet that includes all the 5 food groups (cereals, pulses, fruits, vegetables, milk & milk products) in the right quantity which thereby provides you with all the essential macro and micro nutrients that your body requires daily for proper functioning.
  • Begin your day with a well-balanced breakfast as it is an important meal of the day.
  • Consume minimum 4 servings of vegetables and 1 serving of fruit as they are rich in Fiber, essential minerals & Vitamins as well as they give you a feeling of satiety.
  • Include protein in your diet. Some of the sources include pulses, lentils, milk, paneer, soybean, eggs, lean meat, nuts & seeds, etc.  
  • Food should be colourful and attractive.
  • Avoid empty calories from foods such as carbonated beverages.
  • Iron rich foods should be included in the diet to prevent iron deficiency anaemia. Some of the sources of iron include red meat, green leafy vegetables, eggs, etc
  • Calories and protein rich foods should be taken to support the growth spurt. Some of the good sources of protein include, milk, paneer, lean meat, eggs, lentils, soybean, nuts etc.
  • Include fruits and vegetables to meet the vitamin, minerals and fiber requirement.
  • Try to consume more of Whole grains, Millets and Multigrain foods as they are a good source of fiber.
  • Limit intake of deep-fried foods.
  • Minimum of 6-8 glasses of water should be consumed to keep yourself hydrated.
  • Have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before Bed time.
  • It is necessary to engage in physical activity particularly outdoor games. Physical activity regulates appetite. Engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate physical activity throughout the week.
  • Try to follow a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and quality.

For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions please contact your Health care professional or any registered dietician.

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead.

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