Adolescence is the perfect time for nutrition assessment, education, and intervention. Adolescents become more independent in many areas of life, including food choices.
Nutritionally, it is an important time: nutrient needs are increased due to increased growth rate and changes in body composition associated with puberty.
Behaviorally, it is an important time: healthy habits and sound nutrition patterns are established during adolescence and can play a large role in long term disease prevention and quality of life.
For young adolescents, I request the involvement of parents/guardians in the nutrition counseling process.