Teens Need to Eat More Whole Grains

ST. PAUL, Minn.Fewer than one-third of U.S. teenagers are consuming enough whole grain foods in their diets, according to a new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Researchers at the University of Minnesota examined dietary habits of adolescents who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 1999-2004). They found most teens are not eating the recommended three servings a day of whole grains. About half of boys (52%) and girls (50%) did not consume any whole grains on the day their intake was measured. About one-third of boys (31%) and one-fourth of girls (27%) consumed .5-ounce equivalents per day.

Results found whole grain intake was not associated with body mass index in young people; however, it was related to positive nutrient profiles and chronic disease risk factors.

We are not sure if teens arent getting the message to consume more whole grains or if barriers to consumption are getting in the way of consuming more whole grains," said author Dr. Marla Reicks. Several studies have shown that eating habits during adolescence persist into early adulthood, therefore improving intake at this age will be beneficial in maintaining an adequate intake of whole grains as an adult. We feel that what we know about promotion of healthy foods among adolescents would probably also apply to the promotion of whole grain foods."