Nutritional Status of Punjabi Adolescent Girls from High Socio-Economic Group

Adolescence is a particularly unique dynamic period in life because it is the "second and last growth spurt" in the life of human beings. The adolescence is considered especially vulnerable nutritionally as there is an increased demand for nutrients related to the dramatic increase in physical growth and development; change of food habits affecting both nutrient intake and meals; and special nutrient needs associated with participation in sports, development of eating disorders and other situations common to adolescents. Adolescents aged between 10-19 years, account for more than 1/5^th of world's population and 22.8 per cent of the Indian population.