Define nutrient requirements and principles of meal planning?

In this , we started our discussion with the school age and its characteristics. We learnt about the physical growth and development patterns and psycho-social changes that occur in them. We discussed about their nutrient requirements and principles of meal planning for them. We also got to know about simple tips to improve their eating Behaviour and to correct their faulty eating habits and food choices.

Then, we moved on to the next stage i.e., adolescence which we saw, is a period of marked rapid growth. This growth, we learnt, occurs in spurts, has no calendar and differs in the two sexes. The difference is more evident in the area of body composition.We also studied that the adolescents undergo distinct sexual maturity and psychosocial changes. Social maturity has no targets and its complexities learnt lifelong. This is however a period of maximum peer pressure and urge for peer acceptance. The role of various nutrients in light of these changes was also emphasized.Finally, focus was laid on formation of sound dietary habits such as consuming healthy and nutritious breakfast, carrying wholesome Tiffin and inclusion of foods from all food groups. With regard to adolescents, the calcium and iron requirement need special attention as they are linked to growth and long term good health.

Various national programmes which are targeted for school children and adolescents are mid-day meal programme, ICDS, NIDDCP and anaemia prophylaxis programme. More initiatives are needed for prevention and treatment of obesity in children and controlling CHD from childhood. The common problems of nutrition in this age category are obesity, addressing teenager's mindset, eating out patterns, inadequate calcium, iron and certain eating disorders.