Eating patterns and disorders in adolescence

Changing food texture is important when a patient has difficulty chewing, swallowing, or tolerating ordinary foods. Foods may be softened, minced, mashed, or otherwise modified according to assessed needs. Appropriate texture can improve safety and intake, but it should be selected by a qualified professional because unsuitable textures may increase choking or aspiration risk.

During deep-frying, food can absorb a substantial amount of oil, increasing its fat and calorie content. Regularly eating large quantities of such foods may make it harder to maintain energy balance and can contribute to excessive weight gain and poor cardiovascular health. The exact nutrient content depends on the food, but option C gives the valid general reason for limiting it.

Adolescence is a period of rapid physical growth, changes in body composition, brain development, hormonal maturation, and increasing physical activity. Adequate energy, protein, iron, calcium, vitamins, and other nutrients help support these changes and establish healthy habits. Poor nutrition can contribute to tiredness, impaired growth, anaemia, and reduced concentration. Therefore, growth and development is the correct answer.

Adolescence is a period of rapid physical growth and development. Increases in height, body weight, muscle, blood volume, and bone mass can raise the need for energy, protein, iron, calcium, and other nutrients. Activity levels may also be high. Appetite and metabolism do not normally disappear, and water alone cannot meet nutritional needs. Thus, option A is correct.

Adolescence is a period of rapid physical growth, hormonal change, bone development, and increasing activity. Adequate energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals are needed to support these processes and to build healthy body tissues. Poor nutrition during this stage can affect growth and health, so option A is the correct answer.

Calcium is a major mineral in bones and teeth, helping provide strength and structure. It also supports muscle contraction, nerve transmission and blood clotting. Adequate calcium must be considered with vitamin D, physical activity and overall nutrition, especially during growth and in later life when bone health is important.

Breakfast is the first meal after the overnight fasting period. A wholesome breakfast can provide energy and important nutrients needed for learning, concentration, movement and other morning activities. Its value depends on its quality and the person’s overall diet; it does not replace water and does not automatically prevent every disease. Thus, option B is correct.

Skipping meals can reduce the total amount of energy, protein, vitamins and minerals consumed during the day, especially when the missed meal is not replaced by a balanced later meal. It may also cause hunger, poor concentration, tiredness and overeating later. The effect is not identical for everyone, but reduced energy and nutrient intake is the scientifically appropriate answer.

Regular meal timing helps distribute food and nutrient intake across the day. It can support steady energy, reduce very long gaps between meals, and make it easier to plan a balanced diet. It does not make food spoil or affect the price of utensils. Thus, D correctly describes a healthy eating habit.

Mindful eating means paying attention to the food, eating pace, taste and body signals. Eating slowly gives the brain time to recognize fullness, which may prevent hurried overeating and support appropriate portions. It does not remove nutrients or make food unsafe, so option B is correct.

Following regular meal timings supports a healthy eating pattern. It helps distribute food and nutrients across the day, prevents very long gaps between meals, and may support steady energy and better appetite control. It does not change the colour of food or spoil it. Thus, option A correctly describes the benefit of a regular meal routine.

Frequent meal skipping can cause long gaps without energy and nutrients. A person may experience weakness, poor concentration, irritability or overeating later. Regular, balanced meals help maintain a steadier supply of energy and support adequate nutrient intake. Thus, the problem of repeated skipped meals makes the value of meal timing especially clear.