Adolescence is an critical time in the life cycle. Rapid physical growth and dramatic physiological changes during adolescence create increased demand for energy, protein, iron, and other micronutrients. Nutrition is therefore central to adolescent growth and the realization of human potential. Improving and expanding adolescent nutrition programs and services is essential to addressing adolescents' unique needs and priorities, mitigating the negative impacts of COVID-19 on nutrition, and supporting the growth and development of future generations.

To commemorate International Adolescent Health Week 2022 and to elevate the importance of adolescent nutrition, USAID Advancing Nutrition (@NutritionForDev) hosted the #IAHWNutritionChat on Twitter.

Question 1: Today we’re talking about supporting #nutrition for adolescents, and young parents in particular. What's different about adolescents and why is it important to address their unique nutritional needs? #IAHWNutritionChat #IAHW2022

Question 2: Nutrition-related behaviors established during adolescence can have lasting health impacts well into adulthood. How can nutrition programs and services better support adolescents to adopt healthy #nutrition behaviors? #IAHWNutritionChat #IAHW2022

Question 3: Strong systems are important for implementing nutrition services and programs. What can we do to make nutrition services more accessible for adolescents, including those in the first 1,000 days? #IAHWNutritionChat #IAHW2022

Question 4: Adolescents’ opinions are critical to the effective design and delivery of #nutrition programs and services. What are some ways youth can contribute to decision-making that influences their #nutrition and health? #IAHWNutritionChat #IAHW2022

Question 5: What tools or resources have you found helpful for informing, designing, planning, implementing, and monitoring adolescent nutrition programs? #IAHWNutritionChat #IAHW2022