Nutritional and Dietary Needs of Different Groups of People

Nutritional and Dietary Needs of Different Groups of People

Nutritional and Dietary Needs

Infants

  • Breast milk or formula provides all the essential nutrients required in the first six months
  • Solid foods can be introduced from approximately six months, ideally including a wide range of fruit, vegetables and non-dairy protein sources
  • Iron can become a particularly important nutrient to focus on from six months onwards, as an infant’s stores from birth start to run low.

Toddlers and Pre-School Children

  • A balanced diet is key, with a focus on fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins
  • Portion sizes should be smaller and they should eat more frequently, about 5-6 small meals per day
  • Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone growth.

School-Aged Children

  • They have a higher need for energy as they are more active and growing
  • Spotlight on iron for girls, especially once they start menstruating
  • Encouragement of healthy eating habits and regular physical activity for weight management

Adolescents

  • Requirements for protein, calcium and iron increase during adolescence
  • Adolescents also often have a higher need for energy due to growth and increased physical activity
  • The importance of a healthy diet to support growth and development should be highlighted, including eating regular meals and snacks.

Adults

  • The need for most nutrients remains the same, but energy needs decrease with age
  • A balanced diet including whole grains, proteins, fruits and vegetables is key
  • Regular physical activity and hydration is important

Elderly People

  • Energy needs decrease, but the need for protein, vitamin D and calcium often increase for bone health
  • Fibre is important for preventing constipation, a common problem in older adults
  • Appetite may decrease so nutrient-dense foods are important

Pregnant Women

  • Need additional iron, folate and vitamin D to support growth of the foetus
  • General moderately increased energy needs, no need for ‘eating for two’
  • A healthy balanced diet is key but some foods are to be avoided

People with Specific Dietary Needs

  • People with coeliac disease will need a gluten-free diet
  • Those with Type 2 diabetes may need to control their carbohydrate intake
  • People with high blood pressure should aim for a low-sodium diet