Which of the following statements about nutrition during adolescence is true?

• A. “Food jags” are common among teenagers.
• B. Adolescent girls need more iron in their diet than adolescent boys.
• C. Adolescent girls need more zinc in their diet than adolescent boys.
• D. Answers b & c.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of 'food jags' — these are periods when adolescents prefer to eat only a limited variety of foods, which is common during teenage years due to changing tastes and independence in food choices.
2. Step 2: Recall the nutritional needs during adolescence, focusing on the differences between boys and girls, especially regarding micronutrients like iron and zinc.
3. Step 3: Recognize that adolescent girls require more iron than boys because of menstruation, which increases iron loss and thus iron needs.
4. Step 4: Consider the zinc requirements for adolescent boys and girls; typically, boys need more zinc due to greater muscle growth and development during puberty.
5. Step 5: Evaluate the given statements and identify which one correctly reflects the nutritional needs during adolescence, particularly the increased iron requirement for girls compared to boys.