Dietary inclinations and food prototypes among adolescent boys

Aim: The purpose of the study was to examine the dietary inclinations and food prototypes of adolescent boys. Background: Nutrition plays a vital role in the overall growth and development of children. Inadequate dietary habits among children have been associated with potential health risks in the future. The present study investigates the dietary habits and food patterns of adolescents boys aged 14 –18 years to develop improved dietary behaviours that may help in preventing adverse health outcomes. Method: A total of 75 male adolescents aged 16 to 19 years were randomly selected for the study. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire administered to each participants. The height and weight of the adolescents were recorded to calculated their Body Mass Index. Data was analysed by calculating percentage, standard deviation and Chi square. Results: The study revealed that the majority of respondents (68%) were underweight, and almost all (96%) had a normal tongue. Regular dysentery in bowel movements was observed in 64% of respondents. More than half (50.67%) followed a non-vegetarian diet, and 46.67% consumed meals thrice daily. In terms of dietary consumption, 54.67% consumed milk daily, 66.67% regularly ate green leafy vegetables, and 58.67% consumed fruits occasionally. Mustard oil was the most common cooking medium (61.34%), while tap water was the main source of drinking water for 73.34% of respondents. A majority (68%) did not take vitamin supplements only 32% used vitamin supplements, and 46.67% consumed tea or coffee while 53.34 abstained. Conclusion: The study reveals that mostly adolescent boys of this age group falls under the category of underweight and only 36% were found normal category of BMI standard of classification.