Recent evidence shows that many young people in Scotland are eating unhealthy diets that are low in the essential nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.

Many young people are eating diets that are too high in fat and sugar and too low in fruit and vegetables. While there has been some progress in recent years, only 12% are now eating the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Young people in Scotland also have the highest rate of consumption of sugary soft drinks in Europe.

Concern about the prevalence of obesity is growing, with around a third of Scottish boys and girls aged 12-15 now classified as either overweight or obese. Obesity will significantly increase the risk of serious health problems later in life, including heart disease and type 2 diabetes, and will contribute to low self-esteem.

Following the passing of the Schools (Health Promotion and Nutrition) (Scotland) Act 2007, schools now have a duty to promote the health of their pupils and to ensure that all food and drink served in schools complies with nutritional standards. Partnership working between schools, local authorities and the Scottish Government will be fundamental to improving the diet of Scotland's young people.

Young people should be encouraged to eat a varied and healthy diet, and to combine this with regular physical activity. In addition to helping young people maintain a healthy weight, exercise has additional benefits for mental health.

Health professionals could encourage young people to take part in activities such as walking to school, playing football in a park or dancing which are free and do not require special equipment.