NUTRITIONAL NEEDS OF PREADOLESCENT AND ADOLESCENT YOUTH

The caloric needs of boys and girls are somewhat higher than those for men and women, with corresponding higher allowances for thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin. The protein allowances do not differ significantly from those for adults, but the calcium allowance is 1200 mg, which is 50 per cent greater than that for adults. Boys should have an intake of 18 mg iron through 18 years of age, while girls should continue this level of intake throughout the childbearing years. Iodized salt will meet the increased requirement for iodine.An allowance of 1000 R.E. (5000 I.U.) vitamin A is recommended for boys and of 800 R.E. (4000 I.U.) for girls. Up to 19 years, 10 mcg (400 I.U.) vitamin D should be included daily. The recommended allowance for ascorbic acid is 50 mg at 11-14 years and 60 mg at 15 years and thereafter. The teenage girl frequently becomes pregnant at a time when her own body is still maturing. The mother-to-be needs to increase her already high nutritive allowances by the amounts of nutrients needed for successful pregnancy.