School Health and Nutrition Center (SHNC) Director Thelma Santos says it is necessary to provide the adolescents and children with additional nutrients for fast growth and development during this period.

“The school canteens should serve nutritious and affordable meals to students because this will give them a better chance to grow into healthy and productive adults,” Santos emphasized.

A report from the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that the prevalence and rising incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCD) during adulthood result from unhealthy nutrition and lifestyle practices during pre-adolescence and adolescence.

“According to the study, poor meal preparation, skipping meals, preference for fast food and street food, and engaging in fad diets are factors that contribute to nutrient deficiencies among adolescents and children.”

Director Santos noted that poor nutrition among adolescents can lead to slow growth and development, poor school performance, sluggishness, micronutrient deficiencies particularly anemia, and other diseases in adulthood.