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Diets for Active Teenage Boys

A healthy and balanced diet plays a crucial role in healthy development. The teenage years are an especially important period in developing good eating habits. Teenage boys who are physically active require a balanced, healthy diet containing around 2,800 calories per day.

  1. Diet

    • A key element in your active teenage boy's diet is diversity. As noted at the University of Illinois' helpful website, "Sports and Nutrition: The Winning Connection," There is no one "miracle food" or supplement that can supply all of your nutritional needs." Avoid any diets that fixate on a certain food group (such as low-carb or high-protein diets).

      The United States Department of Agriculture's Food Guide Pyramid recommends: 6 to 11 servings of pasta, rice, bread and cereal; 2 to 4 servings of fruits; 3 to 5 servings of vegetables; 2 to 3 servings of cheese, milk and yogurt; and 2 to 3 servings of meat, poultry, fish, dry beans and eggs per day. Active teenage boys should aim for the highest amount of servings.

    Carbohydrates

    • As noted in ESPN.com's online article, "Dietary Needs for Young Athletes," athletes need a high amount of carbohydrates. This is because carbs encourage muscle functioning and maximize energy. Active teenage boys should be sure to eat at least six servings of carbs per day. Some good sources of carbohydrates are bread, fruits and vegetables, rice, cereal, and pasta.

    Eating

    • Parents of active teenage boys may notice that their sons are constantly eating. Although this may be difficult at times, it is a good sign. Eating frequent, healthy snacks in between meals will give your teen more energy and encourage proper bone growth, as noted in the University of Illinois website, "Sports and Nutrition: The Winning Connection." Pack your teenager healthy snacks, such as granola bars, cereals, fruit, sandwiches, pretzels or crackers to snack on throughout the day.

    Hydration

    • Hydration is crucial to the active lifestyle. Physicians recommend at least eight cups of water per day. Additionally, sports drinks are ideal for long workouts (at least one hour) or very hot temperatures.

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