It's no secret that teenagers eat a lot, especially active teenage boys. During the teenage years, however, it's important that you eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet that will promote normal, healthy development. Proper nutrition is key, as is the importance of not skipping meals.

Teens with bad eating habits are more likely to suffer from obesity, fatigue, nutrient deficiencies and poor cognitive and physical performance at school.

Obesity in adolescents 12 to 19 increased from 5 to 21 percent between 1980 and 2012, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Although some 14-year-olds have tried -- or are thinking about trying -- protein shakes, there are some safety concerns for kids who take dietary supplements.

Along with wine, beer and cocktails, coffee has long been considered a beverage for adults. More and more teenagers, however, are consuming the caffeinated beverage, reports a study published in 2014 in “Pediatrics.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the average 14-year-old male needs about 2,200 to 3,200 calories per day, and the average female needs about 1,800 to 2,400 each day.

The teenage years can be challenging, especially for a young girl who is overweight. She may experience feelings of self-consciousnesses and ridicule from her peers, and she may not know what she needs to do to lose the extra pounds.

Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is critical for overweight and obese teenage girls. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 21 percent of U.S.