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Generation Fast Food
Deficiencies in the American Teen Diet
By Carma Haley Shoemaker
"The number one thing that parents can do is to set an example," Burke says. "Setting example means that the parents themselves are following a healthy meal plan and shopping healthfully. Number two is that you have to shop for health and for healthy foods. Stock the shelves and the fridge with low-fat cheeses and yogurts, fruits and vegetables. One of the best things a kid can do growing up doing is substituting soda and juice for milk -- even if it's chocolate milk. Low-fat chocolate milk is a better choice then juice or soda. It's a matter of choices."
According to the USDA, two-thirds of teens do not get enough zinc or vitamin E, one-half do not get enough calcium and one-third do not get enough iron or vitamin B6. Of American teenage girls, 75 percent do not get enough iron. Parents can equipped themselves with this knowledge and offer their children better choices, better options and better health.
"There is an old saying that says 'knowledge is power,'" Burke says. "It is especially true when it comes to parents helping their teens eat well and eat right. Gain the knowledge of what teens need -- vitamins, iron, calcium and a well-balanced diet -- and you gain the knowledge to give them a great gift -- good health.
