Below is another question that a teen sent in to our web site.  I’d like you to field this one.  You know the drill by now.  This one inquires about calories, a mystery for many folks.  A lot of teens will be able to benefit from your answer.

>Question from clinic web site:

Dear Virtual Nutrition Advisor,

I’ve been working out a lot lately and trying to get into shape for the first time in my life.  It’s kinda fun, actually!  I feel like I should pay more attention to calories in the process, but I don’t quite get how they work.  Do I just consume calories because they taste good, or are they just something that comes along with the proteins and vitamins as a necessary evil? Or what?

- From Confused about Calories

In your response, you’ll want to explain what is meant by "calorie," and make sure you hit on details related to how the body obtains and uses energy.  Remember, your response should be thorough.  Be sure to mention scientific terms such as energy, work, muscle, carbohydrate, sugar, polymer, monomer, chemical reaction and digestion (it’s a lot to include, but we want to clear up the confusion around calories, once and for all!).

Again, if it’s helpful, you can refer to the sample question and answer about vitamins and minerals.

Thanks,

Pat Niren
Head Dietitian
Westside Teen Nutrition Clinic