Growth Means Change

A baby does not have the same food or calorie needs as a child, nor do they have the same calorie needs as an adult. As children grow, and as women go through pregnancy and adults age, the food needs change as well. Different stages of life require different types of foods and at different amounts.

 

Pregnant women will require more calories to sustain the life they are growing starting in the second trimester with needing an additional 340 calories and then an extra 450 calories in the third trimester. (Sizer & Whitney, 2014)  Carbohydrates are important for pregnant women to help provide plenty of energy with an ideal, recommended amount of at least 175 grams per day. (Sizer & Whitney, 2014) Pregnant women, typically, only need about 25 more grams of protein than non pregnant women, however women who limit their protein sources may find that a harder recommendation to meet. While pregnant, it is encouraged that women get plenty of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to encourage appropriate brain growth for the fetus. (Sizer & Whitney, 2014) Folate and Vitamin B12 are needed in large amounts as well as vitamin D and calcium. Iron is also important for pregnant woman since the body puts the fetus’s iron needs before the mothers and having low iron can lead to low birth weight.

The most important food need for infants is water, of which they receive through breast milk or formula. In general the only thing infants consume until around 4-6 months of age are breast milk or formula since that contains all the nutrients they need. Once food is introduced to babies, it is recommended that only age appropriate fruits and vegetables are fed. Foods that contain too much salt, and sweet treats should be avoided. Appropriate foods should provide iron for growth and vitamin C. Milk should not be introduced into the diet until around the 1 year mark. (Sizer & Whitney, 2014)

Once a child turns 1, they need about 800 calories a day and by age six that amount doubles to about 1600 calories a day. Children need ample protein, carbohydrates and fat to grow properly. In addition, getting the appropriate amount of vitamin D is important to ensure bone growth. Iron is important for young children who have previously received an iron rich diet from breast milk or formula. (Sizer & Whitney, 2014) As with all stages, except for infancy, it is important to eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains.

The food needs for adolescents is a little similar to earlier years. Since adolescents go through a lot of developmental changes and growth, iron is necessary. Calorie needs are higher but can vary depending on energy output and between male and female. Calcium is important to help with growth spurts and to continue to have healthy bone growth. Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption and is imperative at this age. At this age, it is vastly important to stick to healthy eating habits so that, upon entering adulthood, the body is well prepared to thrive.

After entering adulthood, nutrition needs can vary greatly. Protein continues to be an important need but as adults age and face teeth issues, will often be eaten less. Carbohydrates and fiber are important to keep the brain functioning well and to keep the digestive system working properly. Consuming healthy fats is important since unhealthy fats will contribute to heart disease. Overall, as individuals get older, less calories are needed to energize the body. Foods right in vitamins are important, as are some processed vitamins, especially B12, which at age 51, is recommended of 2.4 micrograms. (Sizer & Whitney, 2014)

Meeting the proper needs of growing individuals is imperative to continue to encourage healthy living. While the needs can vary greatly depending on what stage a person is in, it is possible through proper diet to get in the appropriate nutrients and calories. It is important to realize that as children age, their needs become more individual to maintain proper weight and to ensure that each person is getting the proper amount of vitamins.

 

References

Sizer, F. S., & Whitney, E. N. (2014). Nutrition: Concepts & controversies. Belmont, Calif.: Wadsworth Cengage Learning.