Why are RED food and drinks restricted for teenagers? Don they need RED foods to meet extra energy requirements?
Compared to children, young people have higher needs for energy and nutrients during rapid growth and development. The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating recommends that young people meet their higher nutrient needs by eating more foods from the five food groups: cereals (including breads, rice, pasta, noodles); vegetables and legumes; fruit; and milk, cheese, yoghurt and alternatives, and meat and meat alternatives. One to three serves of ‘extra’ foods may be included to add variety and meet the additional energy needs of active young people. Dietary surveys show that young people are not consuming the recommended amounts or variety of foods from the five food groups. Instead, approximately six serves of ‘extra’ foods are being consumed every day, contributing to excess energy, fat, sugar and salt, and insufficient essential nutrients needed for growth and development. Pages 5 and 6 of the Smart Choices strategy has more information on the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating, or call 1
