Ten2Twenty: Nutritional, social, and economic pathways for optimized adolescent nutrition and health in the Philippines

Stunting and micronutrient deficiencies among Filipino adolescents is a considerable problem. These may undermine their future health and achievement of full potential as an adult – subsequently affecting their future income capacity, quality of life (QoL), and offspring. But while this is known, there is paucity in information on the factors that contribute to their current state of health and nutrition. As such, these knowledge gaps have to be addressed if a nutrition agenda for adolescents is to be established. Additionally, the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic may have had an effect on the food security and mental health of the adolescents. Hence, this research aimed to examine dietary intakes, patterns, and its predictive factors that contribute to the nutritional status of the Filipino adolescent. In addition, we aimed to investigate the effect of the COVID-19-related-quarantine on food security, diet diversity, and mental health of the Filipino adolescent.