Nutritional Requirements at Different Life Stages

Nutritional Requirements at Different Life Stages

Infancy (0-1)

  • Infants require breast milk or infant formula to satisfy their nutritional requirements.
  • Breast milk or formula is a complete food source containing adequate proportions of carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Babies also require iron supplements from the age of 6 months due to increasing iron requirements not met by breast milk or formula alone.

Toddler and preschool years (1-5)

  • Children in this age group will be learning to eat a wide variety of foods similar to rest of family.
  • These foods will need to comprise an optimal balance of macro and micronutrients to support their rapid growth and development.
  • It is especially important that they consume enough calcium for bone development and iron for cognitive development.

School age children (6-12)

  • This age group should consume a balanced diet consisting of fruits and vegetables, proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
  • With increasing energy needs to support growth spurts, their diet must contain adequate energy yielding nutrients like carbohydrates and proteins.
  • They also need a good supply of calcium and Vitamin D to promote bone growth and development.

Adolescence (13-19)

  • Adolescents need extra nutrients due to rapid physical growth and development during puberty.
  • Iron requirements increase especially among females due to menstruation.
  • Adequate calcium and Vitamin D are vital for peak bone mass development.
  • Consumption of a balanced diet along with healthy lifestyle practices are essential for good health and prevention of lifestyle-associated disorders.

Adulthood (20-64)

  • Adult nutritional requirements aim at maintaining optimal body function and preventing chronic diseases.
  • A balanced proportion of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals should be consumed.
  • Calcium and Vitamin D remain important to prevent bone loss, and women may need iron supplements during pregnancy.
  • Calorie intake should reflect activity levels to maintain a healthy body weight.

Older Adulthood (65 and above)

  • Nutritional requirements for the elderly are generally similar to those in adulthood.
  • However, as metabolism slows down, calorie needs are typically lower.
  • Adequate intake of protein, calcium, Vitamin D, and B vitamins is crucial to support bone health and cognitive function.
  • As digestive efficiency may decrease, nutrient-dense meals are encouraged.