By Heide Kennedy, Arizona Farm Bureau Communications Intern
According to new research published in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, teens are exhibiting poorer dietary habits and exercising less in recent years. The research looked specifically at high schoolers and their eating and exercise habits between the years 2019 and 2021. Researchers noted that there was a decrease in the number of fruits and vegetables consumed by teens from 2019 to 2021, as well as lesser participation rates in physical activities. 
Making poor dietary choices and not getting enough physical activity has long been known to cause health problems later on. Especially during the teen years, it is very important to get proper nutrition and exercise, as this is when much of a teen’s development takes place. The following are a few suggestions on how to encourage healthy habits with your teen.
- Enroll them in sports
- Enroll them in a P.E. class
- Promote outdoor activities rather than indoor
- Pack healthy snacks for school
- Make and prepare healthy foods at home
For more articles about healthy eating and exercise, check out the Fill Your Plate blog!