Teenagers Keep Eating a Lot, Could Be in a Growth Spurt

Dream - Entering adolescence, children usually feel hungry all the time and eat more. Parents who have teenage children will definitely notice a change in their eating habits.

Feeling hungry and increased portion are experienced due to the rapid growth of teenagers during adolescence, also known as growth spurt. Teenagers may immediately feel hungry again even though they have already eaten.

They sometimes immediately look for snacks after eating. Especially after engaging in activities or studying that greatly drain the brain. The appetite and portion of teenage children's meals sometimes make parents worried. During the growth spurt phase, teenagers indeed need a greater intake of nutrients. "There's no need to worry, it's normal for teenagers to go through this phase. In boys, this phase occurs around the age of 9 to 16 years old, while girls experience this phase at the age of 8 to 15 years old," said Jill Castle, a pediatrician.

Besides increased appetite, the growth of body parts such as legs and arms, hair growth in certain areas, as well as unstable emotions. Teenagers in their growth period certainly need sufficient nutrition to support their growth.

Besides that, teenagers who are in their growing phase also need a lot of nutrients such as protein. Protein is one of the most important nutrients during a child's growth so that the body can build new cells and tissues for growth. "In addition, specifically for girls, they need additional iron intake due to the decrease of iron in the body caused by menstruation," said Castle.

he translation of the given 'Bahasa' text to 'English' while preserving the HTML tags is as follows: The need for calcium in children also increases. Starting at the age of 9, the calcium requirement for children increases from 1000 mg per day to 1300 mg per day

The following 'Bahasa' text translated to 'English' while preserving any html tags: "This calcium deficiency can be fulfilled by consuming a glass of milk or yogurt. Teenagers also need vitamins and fiber. Vitamins and fiber can be obtained from the intake of fruits and vegetables."

Recommended Foods During Teenage Growth Spurts

To meet the nutritional needs of teenagers during their growth period, parents should pay attention to their children's food intake. Various plant-based and animal-based protein sources can be fulfilled by consuming eggs, milk, and nuts. In addition, fresh food is recommended as it is more nutrient-dense compared to processed food.

Make sure the refrigerator and kitchen are always stocked with nutritious food. In addition, it is highly recommended to always have easily portable food supplies available in the kitchen.

Some nutrient-dense solid foods to support adolescent growth are, boxed milk, yogurt, fruits such as apples, pears, and oranges, cheese, nuts and dried fruits, meat, and water bottles to encourage children to drink water regularly. Also, encourage children to plan their meals and monthly shopping. Involving them in these activities can also teach teenagers about good food choices for their bodies. Report by Salma Rihhadatul Aisy / Source: Parents

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