Excessive weight gain during childhood and adolescence is associated with adult-onset diabetes, high blood pressure in adolescence and adulthood, and adult cardiovascular disease. Inadequate consumption of healthy foods, especially fruits and vegetables, can also contribute to vitamin and mineral deficiencies and increase the risk for numerous disorders, including different forms of cancer.

This study evaluated adolescent food consumption trends in the United States from 1965-1996, with particular emphasis on the implications of health and chronic disease. Data were analyzed from four nationally representative U.S. Department of Agriculture surveys of individuals 11-18 years of age (12,498 teenagers). All four surveys included at least one in-home, 24-hour dietary recall survey administered by an interviewer; the authors of the current study used this information as the primary data for their analysis. Several disturbing trends were noted, including:

• a higher percentage of energy from fat than present dietary guidelines recommend (although lower than in previous decades);
• increased consumption of higher-fat potato and mixed dishes (pizza, macaroni & cheese, etc.);
• inadequate fiber, raw fruit, and vegetable (non-potato) consumption;
• decreased milk consumption (low-fat replaced by high fat);
• a substantial increase in the consumption of soft drinks and non-citrus juices/drinks; and
• low intake of dietary folate and iron (in females).

Conclusion: These findings indicate that current food consumption trends compromise the nutritional and health status of the U.S. adolescent population and may contribute to the increased incidence of nutrition-related chronic diseases. The authors note that these results “provide a clearer basis for intervention during adolescence to instill proper dietary habits.”