What should a school nurse emphasize about the nutritional needs of an adolescent girl?

The emphasis on adequate iron and calcium intake for adolescent girls is crucial due to several factors related to their growth and development. During adolescence, girls experience significant physical changes, including growth spurts and the onset of menstruation. These changes increase the body's demand for certain nutrients.

Iron is particularly important because it supports the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Adolescent girls are at higher risk for iron deficiency due to menstrual blood loss. Ensuring adequate iron intake helps prevent anemia, which can lead to fatigue and decreased physical performance.

Calcium is equally vital during this stage as it plays a significant role in bone development and achieving peak bone mass, which can protect against osteoporosis later in life. The adolescent years are a critical time for bone health, making sufficient calcium intake essential to support the growing skeleton.

Overall, focusing on adequate iron and calcium intake helps to ensure that adolescent girls not only maintain optimal health during these formative years but also lay the foundation for long-term well-being.