Healthy Eating and Teens

Teenagers need a variety of healthy foods every day to get the nutrients needed for good mental and physical health. Habits developed during this time will last a lifetime. Help teens learn about healthy eating by cooking and eating meals together as a family.

Use Canada's food guide to choose a variety of healthy foods and beverages each day.

For more information on Healthy Eating, check our Healthy Eating page.

Positive Body Image

Normal growth and development at this stage of life will include changes in size and body shape. It is important to help teens accept their body size and shape and have a positive and healthy body image.

Promote a positive body image by focusing on what teens can do, such as healthy eating and physical activity, rather than what they look like. Avoid talking about dieting or making comments about your own, or other people's weight or shape.

If you have questions or concerns about healthy eating or body image, call Health811 (Dial 811 or TTY: 1-866-797-0007) to talk to a Registered Dietitian for free.

Additional Resources

• Caffeine and Teens 
• Eating Well with Canada's Food Guide
• Find a Dietitian
• Meal Planning for the Vegetarian Teen
• School Lunch your Kids Will Munch
• Ten Ways to Get Teens Cooking
• The Eat Well Plate
• Unlock Food