Do you have to listen if a parent tells you what to eat and what not to eat I am 16 yrs old Please answer with a mekor if possible Thanks

Shalom, Thank you for your question. Let me start by saying that sometimes we should do what our parents say not because of the mitzvah of honoring our parents – but because they might be correct in what they say. And that is the first thing you should consider – that objectively, what your parents tell you may be the right thing to do. For example, if they tell you to keep kosher; or to abstain from unhealthy foods; or to eat in a way that will keep you alive and healthy – then you are obligated to listen to what they say, independent of the fact that is your parents talking. So, please, check to see if what they are telling you is obligatory in and of itself (there is always a possibility that one’s parents are actually correct :) But let us look at the case when one’s parents tell you what to eat when it has no objective correctness. If it is objectively bad – eg non-kosher food, or food that will be detrimental to your health etc - then one is not obligated to listen to their parents (and should not). What is the case when it is neither good nor bad – “eat your greens”? One is not obligated to follow their parents wishes when it does not affect the parents themselves. Honoring one’s parents mainly concerns taking care of them, and making sure that they are physically well cared for. But on top of this, there is a command to Respect one’s parents, which includes not contradicting them, and fighting with them. There is a fine line between the important decisions you will make in life that are so important that you may make them even if your parents object (who to marry, what to study, where to live etc) - and those that you are expected to ignore your own wishes so as to give respect to your parents (such as tucking your shirt in when your mother asks you too). In general, when living in their home, and especially when being supported by them, we give more weight to fulfilling their wishes. [Here is an article that goes into more details - https://nleresources.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Honoring-Parents.pdf - see especially section 4]. From your question, I’m guessing that there might be some tension around your diet and your parents wishes. If this is the case, may I advise trying to talk things out together to find a mutually acceptable solution. If you feel that talking will not help you – then perhaps turn to a mutually respected adult who knows you and your parents, who perhaps could mediate between you. Many blessings.