Nutrition for Children

What are nutrition supplements for teenagers?

Nutrition supplements for teenagers are specially formulated, keeping in mind the nutritional needs of teenagers who have an active life. A teen athlete’s nutritional demand rises as they get involved in heavier training and regular diet may not live up to the high nutritional standards. A good whey protein or teenage nutrition supplement with a complete amino acid profile takes care of this spiked demand with its high-quality fast-absorbable protein that is quickly taken up by the body. There are several nutrition supplements available for teenagers that can complement their diet and support their overall health and well-being. But keep in mind that these are dietary supplements and should always be taken in conjunction with a healthy & balanced diet.

Best nutrients for teenagers

As a teenager, it's important to have a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients to support growth, development, and overall health. Here are some essential nutrients that are particularly important for teenagers:

Protein
Protein is necessary for growth & development as well as for repairing body tissues. Good sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts.

Calcium
Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources of calcium. Leafy green vegetables, fortified plant-based milks, and calcium-fortified products can also provide calcium. You can also ask your doctor about the best calcium supplements.

Iron
Iron is important for red blood cell production and to prevent iron deficiency anemia. Good sources of iron include lean meats, poultry, fish, fortified cereals, beans, lentils, spinach, and other leafy green vegetables.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and bone health. It can be obtained through exposure to sunlight, but food sources such as fatty fish (e.g. salmon, mackerel.), fortified dairy products, and fortified cereals can also contribute to vitamin D intake.

Fiber
Adequate fiber intake is important for digestive health and can help prevent constipation. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts are good sources of dietary fiber.

Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are important for brain health and development. They can be found in fatty fish (e.g., salmon, trout), flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and fortified foods.

Folate
Folate or vitamin B9 is essential for cell growth and development. It can be found in dark leafy greens, legumes, citrus fruits, and fortified grains.

Vitamins and minerals
Teenagers should consume a variety of fruits and vegetables to obtain essential vitamins (such as vitamins A, C, and E) and minerals (such as potassium, magnesium, and zinc).

Nutrition for teenagers’ benefits

Some of the main benefits of nutrition supplements for teenagers are –

Fulfil their energy needs
In today’s teenagers, a high level of energy expenditure is often observed when they participate in their favorite sports activities and outdoor hobbies, leaving them drained. However, the inclusion of whey protein and essential nutrients (vitamins and minerals) in their diet helps sustain their energy levels, enabling them to actively participate in these intense activities without experiencing excessive fatigue.

Provide bone support
In order to excel in sports and training, teenage athletes need strong bones. A specialized whey protein supplement that’s enriched with vitamin D, magnesium, and other essential nutrients plays a crucial role in fortifying the skeletal system, providing necessary support for these demanding activities.

Improves concentration and focus
Teenagers frequently encounter distractions and find it challenging to maintain focus on their tasks. A beneficial nutrition supplement for teenagers goes beyond the usual macronutrient support by providing essential micronutrients as well, including vitamins and minerals. It offers the right balance of all the nutrients to actively support brain functions, enhancing concentration levels during training sessions and helping teenagers build better focus.

Helps with muscle gains
During training, muscles rely on an ample supply of protein for optimal growth, repair, and strength development. Whey protein, known for its rapid absorption, quickly enters the body’s metabolic pathway, facilitating accelerated muscle growth and effective recovery.

Best nutrition for teenager supplements

GNC Milestones Teen Protein is one of the best nutrition supplements for teenagers. Teen Protein is specially developed to help fulfil the nutritional and fitness demands of today’s young athletes who are actively working hard to get better at sports and win tournaments. It covers up to 30% of a teen’s daily protein requirement for supporting their active lifestyle and building the potential for delivering an exceptional performance. Each serving of GNC’s Teen Protein contains 12.5g of fast-absorbing Whey protein with 1.5g of L-Glutamine and 0.2g of BCAAs to readily provide the necessary nutrition for your child’s growth & athletic development. It ensures that the second growth-spurt phase moves forward with full force for bringing out the best in your champion. GNC’s Teen Protein is formulated with high-quality whey protein, L-Glutamine, BCAAs, and other amino acids to enhance muscle repair and recovery, allowing teenagers to reach their maximum potential. This supplement also provides 100% of RDA of vitamin D, which aids in absorption of calcium and phosphate in the body. It also has magnesium that helps maintain healthy muscles & bones for supporting an athletic physique.

Apart from the quick-absorbable Whey, GNC’s Teen Protein is enriched with Vitamins B1, B2, B3 & B9 for helping metabolise the consumed food to obtain a great amount of energy. It also contains Iron that improves Haemoglobin levels for better oxygen transport throughout the body. Sodium in the formula helps maintain good hydration and electrolyte balance. All these ingredients keep your kiddo energetic and well hydrated during the training. GNC’s Teen Protein is designed to be easily digestible, all thanks to the special DigeZyme® added to it. This unique multi-enzyme complex is formed by gut-friendly enzymes, including Alpha Amylase, Protease, Lipase, Cellulase, and Lactase, which ensure that the protein goes easy on your kiddo’s tummy. GNC’s Teen Protein works best as a brain booster too as it contains Magnesium and 100% RDA of Vitamin B12 for improving your child’s concentration and prolonging their attention span. This keeps their mind actively involved in the training without getting swayed by intrusive thoughts.

Best teenage nutrition supplements price list in India

When and how to consume nutrition supplements for teenagers?

Just mix 1 scoop (approximately 25g) GNC Teen’s Protein in water or milk to make a delicious shake. Give your teenage child 1 serving at anytime of the day or as suggested by your doctor. Make sure you read the dosage instructions mentioned on the pack and follow them.

It is available in a delicious chocolate flavor and has no added sugar. You can make delicious protein shakes with GNC Teen Protein, blend it with yogurt and fruits to make a healthy smoothie for your child, or even add it to various recipes like protein pancakes, waffles, and muffins.

Where to buy nutrition supplements for teenagers?

If you want to buy the complete range of GNC nutrition supplements for teenagers, then head to GNC India’s official website – www.guardian.in.

Factors to keep in mind when buying nutrition supplements for teenagers

Before purchasing nutrition supplements for teenagers, it's important to consider several factors to ensure their safety, effectiveness, and appropriateness. Here are some key factors to keep in mind –

Nutritional Needs
Identify the specific nutritional needs of the teenager. Consider factors, such as their age, sex, activity level, and any specific dietary restrictions or health conditions they may have. This will help determine which nutrients or supplements may be beneficial.

Quality and Safety
Look for reputable brands and manufacturers that adhere to strict quality-control standards. Check for third-party certifications, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), which ensure that the product has been produced in a safe and controlled environment.

Ingredients
Read the ingredient list carefully to understand what is included in the supplement. Avoid products that contain excessive artificial additives, fillers, or unnecessary ingredients. Be cautious of allergens if the teenager has any known allergies.

Dosage and Instructions
Follow the recommended dosage instructions provided by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional. Avoid exceeding the recommended dosage as excessive intake of certain nutrients can have adverse effects.

Professional Guidance
Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before introducing any new supplements. They can assess the teenager's nutritional needs, evaluate potential interactions with medications, and provide personalized advice on suitable supplements.

Scientific Evidence
Look for supplements that have scientific evidence supporting their efficacy and safety. Check for research studies, clinical trials, or reputable sources of information, which validate the claims made by the product.

Cost and Value
Consider the cost-effectiveness of the supplement. Compare prices, but also consider the quality, dosage, and the number of servings provided. Sometimes, cheaper products may not necessarily provide the same level of quality or efficacy.

Remember, supplements should not be seen as a replacement for a healthy and balanced diet. They should complement a well-rounded eating plan and an active lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I give GNC Teen Protein to my child every day?
Yes, it is completely safe to give GNC Teen Protein to your teenager child everyday if you are doing so under the guidance of your doctor. Make sure to follow the recommended dosage for your child and also ask your doctor if you can combine this supplement with any other.

2. What are some high-protein foods that work well for teenagers?
Including high-protein foods in a teenager's diet is essential for his/her growth, development, and overall health. Here are some excellent sources of protein for teenagers:

• Lean meats
• Fish and seafood
• Eggs
• Dairy products – milk, yogurt, cheese, etc
• Tofu and tempeh
• Legumes – kidney beans, black beans, lentils, chickpeas, etc
• Nuts and seeds – almonds, walnuts, peanuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, etc
• Greek yogurt
• Quinoa
• Whole grains
• Cottage cheese