Andrea N. Bailey
People of different age groups need different amounts of nutrients. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is dietary standard. The RDA was developed by the Food and Nutrition Board and published in 1943. A daily food guide consists of milk and milk products, bread and cereals, fruits and vegetables, and meat and meat alternatives.
A family of an individual can carry out its own daily nutrition program by making use of the Daily Food Guide and the servings according to age and needs. A six- year old does not need as much food as a twelve year old. All teenagers undergo what is called a growth spurt. This period of rapid growth varies from person to person. During the period both sexes need more energy this calls for more nutrients and calories per day. The family meal plan should be satisfactory for adolescents. Portion sizes can be increased or decreased where needed.
