Adolescent Nutrition and Health: a Critical Period for Nutritional Intervention to Prevent Long Term Health Consequences

Abstract

Purpose of Review: This review aims to examine adolescent nutrition as a critical and often neglected component of global health agendas. Adolescence represents a period of rapid growth and development with increased nutritional and energy demands, remaining a ‘hidden crisis’ in nutritional health. The review explores the ‘triple burden’ of malnutrition affecting this population—undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and overnutrition—and analyzes the individual, social, environmental, and socio-economic factors influencing adolescent nutritional status. Recent Findings: Poor nutrition during adolescence has been linked to both immediate and long-term health consequences, including micronutrient deficiencies, obesity, and cardiometabolic conditions. Evidence suggests that adolescents’ heightened receptivity to societal influences can be leveraged through targeted interventions. Family-led programs, environmental reforms, and comprehensive policy measures have shown promising results in promoting healthier nutritional behaviors among adolescents. Summary: The nutritional challenges facing adolescents require urgent attention through comprehensive, multi-sectoral strategies. Effective interventions during this critical developmental window can foster long-term health outcomes and help break intergenerational cycles of malnutrition. This review emphasizes the importance of prioritizing adolescent nutrition within global health initiatives to address this significant and often overlooked public health concern.