Food help aimed at children.

Byline: Diane Parkes

ANY parent knows how hard it is to feed a youngster but what about those children moving from junior school into adulthood? As they flex their wings they are also increasingly going to be choosing their own diets.

With schools offering plenty of nutrition advice these days, young people have never had such easy access to healthy eating information but that does not necessarily mean they will follow it once they start feeding themselves.

Obesity is twice as common in adolescents today as it was 30 years ago and it puts young people at risk of a range of health problems which would not usually be associated with youth.

High blood pressure and type two diabetes are serious health concerns which, in most cases, can be avoided with a healthy diet.

In their book 100% Me, editors Elinor Greenwood and Alexander Cox tackle the issue, as well as countless other questions faced by children aged eight to 13.

Aimed at the youngsters themselves, the writers include a quiz to help guide readers in their choices.

And while their quiz may be aimed at youngsters, their advice is valuable for all ages.

WHAT KIND OF EATER ARE YOU? It's breakfast time. Do you...

a) Miss it out and spend extra time in bed.

b) Stuff a piece of toast in your mouth as you rush out the door.

c) Eat cereal and toast, or eggs and fruit or a smoothie - you know, a proper breakfast! Sunday lunch. Do you...

a) Take six roast potatoes and slosh on gallons of gravy. No veg thanks! b) You'll have a bit of everything and gobble it down.

c) A few potatoes for you, lot of veg (your favourite bit). A splash of gravy.

You feel the need for a snack. What do you choose? a) A bar of chocolate.

b) Bread, crisps, whatever is in the cupboard.

c) A piece of fruit, some seeds or nuts.

You are eating out at a diner with friends. What do you choose? a) Burger and chips.

b) Whatever everyone else is having.

c) Chicken or fish with potatoes and veg.

You're thirsty. What do you drink? a) A can of sugary fizzy drink.

b) Squash or juice, whatever you can find.

c) A glass of water or a small glass of fruit juice to add to your five portions of fruit and veg a day.

ANSWERS Mostly As You're not the most healthy eater. Try to choose more green veg, fruit, lean meats and fish. You'll feel better and learning good habits now can last a lifetime.

Mostly Bs You're a convenience eater.

Whatever is available, you'll eat and you don't think much about it, so long as you're full. Try eating more fruit and veg and be conscious of your five portions of fruit and veg a day.

Mostly Cs You're a very healthy eater.

The habits you have now will last a lifetime - brilliant! And for a bit of help follow these top tips: Eat fruit or vegetables * for a snack Use low fat dairy * products Watch your sugar intake * Eat more oily fish * Increase fibre in your diet * Decrease the use of salt. * For more advice for adolescents see 100% Me edited by Elinor Greenwood and Alexander Cox (DK, pounds 7.99)