A report which has been backed by the United Kingdom Department of Health shows that teenage girls who eat fewer than the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables daily, are at risk of serious disease. The report shows that only one girl out of every 13 eats the recommended amount of fruit and vegetables daily. Eating less than three portions of fruit and vegetables daily could put teenage girls at risk of developing heart disease, cancer, strokes and diabetes later in life.

A particular problem was not eating sufficient foods which contain iron, used by the body to fight infection, and can be found in red meat, some vegetables and nuts. A large number of diets for kids are too high in saturated fat, which can lead to heart disease and strokes later in life. A survey which was carried out on more than 2000 children and adults in the UK discovered that the diet of teenage girls is generally less healthy than teenage boys. The boys eat approximately three portions of fruit and vegetables daily, whereas girls average at 2.7 portions a day.

Experts warn that a poor diet with insufficient nutrients and a high saturated fat content as a child, can lead to serious health problems later on in life. Junk food with a high fat, sugar and salt content should be limited, while meals containing a selection of nutrients and fresh ingredients should be part of a daily diet, including five portions of fruit and vegetables.

According to a quote by the Daily Mail, Professor Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer said:

It is really important that teenagers eat a balanced diet-including eating five portions of fruit and veg a day. Eating well and being active can help prevent serious illnesses such as cancer and heart disease later in life.