Puberty brings surges in hormones and physical body changes. During this time, teens may be working out their identity, how they fit in with their peer group and starting to become more independent, which can lead to waves of different emotions. It may be difficult for parents to know when mood changes are part of growing up, or when they could be a sign of something that may need further support, such as depression, self-harm or drug-taking. You should refer any customers with these concerns to their GP for further support.

Healthy eating

The physical changes that teenagers go through can be supported with a healthy, balanced diet. Teens need lots of energy and nutrients from their food as they are still growing.¹

Some teens may be worried about their weight, whether they are trying to bulk up with muscle or concerned about weight gain. Growth charts for children may be used to help check body mass index. These charts can be found in the ‘red book’ that parents are given, or can be accessed in the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health online resources. Adult height/weight charts should not be used for those under 18 years.

You can advise customers who ask about healthy eating to:

• Eat a healthy breakfast and don't skip it – breakfast can provide important vitamins and minerals
• Follow the Eatwell Guide, which recommends meals based on starchy foods, such as bread or pasta (wholegrain where possible), and including protein (e.g. beans, fish, meat) as well as some dairy or dairy alternatives
• Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables – at least five a day to get nutrients and fibre
• Minimise snacks that are high in sugar, salt or fat which can be high in calories without additional nutrients. Healthier options include fruit, vegetable sticks and oatcakes
• Drink plenty of sugar-free fluids – about six to eight glasses per day. Water, plain tea, coffee (without added sugar) and lower fat milk all count towards this.

Fish is a good source of omega-3. As part of a healthy diet, it is recommended that people eat a couple of portions a week, including one portion of oily fish. It has been suggested that diets rich in oily fish may be protective in maintaining good memory and prevention/treatment of depression.² For those that don’t like fish, other sources of omega-3 fats include walnuts, flaxseeds and vegetable oils (soya or rapeseed).

Key nutrients for teens include vitamin D and calcium (for healthy bones and teeth, as at this age there is a rapid increase in bone mass) and iron.³ It is recommended by the UK Department of Health that adults and children over five years should consider taking a daily 10 mcg vitamin D supplement in autumn and winter.

Menstruation

Customers affected by painful periods or heavy bleeding may want advice on medicines they can take. For painful periods, ibuprofen, paracetamol or naproxen may be used. OTC naproxen (P) can only be used by those aged 15 years or over. Aspirin can only be used by those aged 16 years or over.

Endometriosis is a condition that can cause painful, heavy or irregular periods as well as other symptoms.⁴ Teens whose periods have started have a higher recommended daily intake of iron (14.8mg daily)⁵ than those who do not have periods. Customers affected by heavy periods may be more at risk of anaemia. It may be appropriate to refer younger teens affected by heavy periods to their GP.

There may be interest from teenage customers in feminine hygiene products that are kinder to the environment. Think about what is available in store and online, such as menstrual cups or tampons made from natural materials.

Skin and haircare

Changes in hormone levels can have an impact on the appearance of skin and hair. Some of your customers may be looking for advice about products to help maintain healthy hair as well as advice on a good skincare routine.

Acne commonly affects teens. There are products available for mild acne, such as benzoyl peroxide or nicotinamide gel, as well as specifically designed face washes, moisturisers and cleansers. Some customers may also be eligible for the Acne Online Clinic.

HPV vaccination

Girls and boys aged 12-13 years are offered the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine as part of the NHS vaccination programme. The vaccine helps protect against cervical cancer, some cancers of the genital/anal area, and some head and neck cancers. It also helps protect against genital warts. Both doses of the vaccine are needed in order for it to offer proper protection and anyone who didn’t have it in school can get it free on the NHS (up until the age of 25 years).⁷