As a teen, it can seem attractive to eat out often with friends or indulge in yummy sugary drinks. Especially if you are busy with work and school, it might seem easier to snack on processed food or pick up some quick takeout on the way home. However, it is really important to start rethinking your diet, as your teen years affect your body’s health throughout the rest of your life.
Healthy Development
During your teen years, your body and mind are still growing and developing as you prepare for your adult years. For this reason, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, having a healthy diet is so important because what you eat can affect the way that your body continues to develop. During adolescence, your body gains almost half of your projected adult weight and a good portion of your projected adult height. Adolescence also leads to other important developmental stages, such as sexual and mental development. By not providing your body with the proper nutrition, you could seriously harm the development of your body in these different aspects.
Dental Health
Many teens have braces or retainers to straighten their teeth as their bodies are still growing significantly. Braces, retainers, or other straightening methods can not only better align your teeth, but also can provide an easier way to clean your teeth, preventing cavities or gum disease. If you regularly drink sugary drinks like soda or juice, eat sugary treats or snacks with a lot of starch, you may find out that your teeth’ enamel is eroding. This also occurs if you don’t have good teeth brushing methods or habits. According to Stellar Family Orthodontics, a lack of healthy enamel can cause your teeth to become more sensitive. This sensitivity and teeth exposed with a lack of enamel can in turn lead to infection and cavities. Try to maintain a healthy diet so you can better protect your enamel and dental health.
Have More Energy
According to Pontchartrain Pediatrics, maintaining a healthy diet can provide you with a lot more energy, both mentally and physically. If you drink lots of soda or eat lots of processed foods, your body won’t be getting the proper nutrients that it requires. This will lead you to feel sluggish, groggy, and tired throughout the day. If you want to have more mental energy so you can focus better in school, try to maintain a more balanced diet. Additionally, a healthy diet will help you to have more energy for sports and physical activities.
Even though starting healthy eating habits can seem intimidating or even impossible, have faith that you’ll be able to do it. Once you eat more carefully and care more about your diet, you will notice a huge difference in the way you think and feel. Start healthy habits today so that your body can be healthy and strong throughout your life!
Read this next: 3 Food Recipes You Can Cook in Under 10 Minutes