Bodies

We all know that young people lead very busy lives. There are lots of problems and hassles to deal with let alone finding time to fit in homework, sport and all your social activities. Because of this busy lifestyle there is a tendency to skip meals or eat things on the run like 'junk food' - all of which can affect our health. Our body needs certain nutrients to give us the energy to keep up with our busy lifestyles. In particular we need energy foods, protein, vitamins and minerals, fibre and lots of water and you have five groups to choose from to get these essential nutrients.

Recommended Servings

For adolescents aged 12-18 the Dietary Guidelines for Australians recommends that each day you have:

• 4-7 serves of cereals
• 5-9 serves of vegetables
• 3-4 serves of fruit
• 3-5 serves of milk, yoghurt, cheese
• 1-2 serves meat or alternatives
• 1-3 extra foods

And of course you should also try to drink one and half litres or eight glasses of water each day.

For adults it is recommended that men have slightly more than adolescents and women have slightly more. For further information see the Dietary Guidelines for Australians.

Good habits

Some good food habits include:

• breakfast is the most important meal of the day - unfortunately a lot of people seem to skip it. If you are not a breakfast person try to have a nutritious snack such as fruit or yoghurt
• junk foods tends to be the most commonly eaten snack; how about trying some healthier alternatives such as cheese, fruit, nuts or bread rolls
• many takeaway foods are high in salt, sugar or fats, salads and fruits are also good takeaway foods and try not to eat our every day
• if you are vegetarian, it is quite easy to miss out on some essential nutrients, it would be a good idea to ask your doctor or community health dietitian whether you need any supplements such as calcium, iron or particular vitamins