Behavioural nutrition: Strategies to promote healthy eating in adolescents

Despite evidence that adolescents are aware of thebenefits of healthy eating, the majority do not eatenough healthy foods, such as vegetables and fruit.They are consuming too much less-healthy food thatis high in sugar, saturated fat and/or salt. The choiceto eat healthier foods is influenced by factors otherthan health in adolescents. Behavioural nutritionapplies marketing, psychology and consumerbehaviour principles to food and nutritional intake.This article summarises key behavioural nutritionstrategies that can positively influence adolescents’food choices. Practical applications of these strategiesare suggested for teachers and other advocates forhealthy eating.