Which statement is true regarding caloric needs of adolescent girls compared to boys?

During adolescence, boys generally require more calories than girls due to several physiological factors. Boys typically have a higher basal metabolic rate and body mass, as they tend to develop more muscle mass and have a larger body size overall. This increase in muscle mass translates into higher energy expenditure, especially during growth spurts. Moreover, boys often engage in higher levels of physical activity, which further increases their caloric needs.

In contrast, although girls also experience significant growth and development during adolescence, including increases in body fat and muscle, their caloric needs are generally lower than those of boys. This is influenced by the differences in body composition and energy expenditure between the genders. Understanding these differences is vital for addressing nutritional needs and promoting healthy growth and development during this critical stage of life.