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During the teenage years, as we transition from childhood to adulthood, it is important to eat well to support this phase of rapid growth and development.
This is an exciting time as we mature to make our own decisions about what we eat.
A balanced diet ensures that we obtain enough energy and nutrients to help maintain the normal functioning and optimal health of our bodies; to assist with growth and repair; and to help fight and prevent against infection and disease.
To the right, find some key nutrients, a selection of the normal functions they contribute to and examples of food sources:
Our energy and nutrient needs vary depending on unique factors such as gender, age, body size, growth phase and physical activity levels. In general, however, a balanced diet will ensure you are getting what you need.
The Department of Health’s Food Pyramid provides guidance on daily servings from each food group, with a variety of foods from the bottom four shelves recommended for a good range of vitamins and minerals.
To find out the role of dairy as part of a balanced diet, you can download our free ‘Nutrition & You’ booklet.
