Dietary Patterns And Undernutrition Among In-School Adolescents In Aba North Local Government Area, Abia State:- Onwuka Gloria U

ABSTRACT

Adolescence is a vulnerable period but also a window of opportunity to address physical and mental health, catch up with growth and ensure improved future outcomes (Reference Banati). It is also a period of nutritional burden facing undernutrition. This study was focused on dietary patterns and undernutrition among in-school adolescents in Aba, which is delimited to Aba North Local Government area in Abia State. Undernutrition in adolescents could be attributed to their dietary patterns of skipping meals (especially breakfast) and their poor feeding frequency of some foods. It is essential to promote healthy eating habits among in-school adolescents by providing them with access to healthy food choices, educating them on the importance of a balanced diet, and promoting regular mealtimes.