Diet During Childhood and Adolescence

 DIET DURING CHILDHOOD AND ADOLESCENCE

Although specific nutritional requirements change as children grow, nutri-tion always affects physical, mental, and emotional growth and development. Studies indicate that the mental ability and size of an individual are directly influenced by nutrition during the early years. Children who have an inad-equate supply of nutrients—especially of protein—and calories during their early years may be shorter and less intellectually able than children who receive an adequate diet.