 |  Perspectives in Nutrition, 5/e Gordon M. Wardlaw,
Ohio State University
Margaret W. Kessel,
Ohio State University
Nutrition for Infancy through Adolescence
Chapter 17 Summary- Growth is very rapid during infancy; birth weight doubles in 4 to 6 months,
and length increases by 50% in the first year. An adequate diet, especially
in terms of energy, as well as the nutrients protein and zinc, is essential
to support normal growth. Undernutrition can cause irreversible changes in
growth and development. Growth in infants and children can be assessed by
measuring body weight, height (or length), and head circumference over time.
Growth charts have recently been revised to include a more valid measurement
for determining children's growth, body mass index (BMI).
- Nutrient needs in the first 6 months can be met by human milk or iron-fortified
infant formula. Supplementary vitamin D and iron may be needed in the first
6 months for breastfed infants, and many infants may need supplemental fluoride
after 6 months of age.
- Infant formulas generally contain lactose or sucrose, heat-treated proteins
from cow's milk, and vegetable oil. These formulas may or may not be fortified
with iron. Sanitation is very important when preparing and storing formula.
- Most infants don't need solid foods before about 4 to 6 months of age. Solid
food should not be added to an infant's diet until the nutrients are needed,
the GI tract can digest complex foods, the infant has the physical ability
to control tongue thrusting, and the risk of developing food allergies has
decreased.
- The first solid food given should be iron-fortified infant cereals or ground
meats. Other single foods can be added gradually, at the rate of about one
each week. Some foods to avoid giving infants in the first year include honey,
cow's milk (especially fat-reduced varieties), very salty or sweet foods,
and foods that may cause choking.
- Introducing iron-containing solid food at the appropriate time and not offering
cow's milk until 1 year of age can generally prevent iron deficiency anemia
in late infancy.
- A slower growth rate in preschool years underlies the importance of children's
eating nutrient-dense foods and reducing their food serving sizes. Choosing
iron-rich foods, such as lean red meats, is important at this age. Portion
sizes at meals of 1 tablespoon of each food for each year of life is a good
rule of thumb for vegetables, fruits, and meats.
- Preschoolers should be given some leeway in determining serving size and
should be encouraged to try new foods. Highly restrictive diets designed to
reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease or hypertension are not recommended
for preschoolers or older children, unless prescribed by a physician.
- Obese children and adolescents are more likely to become obese adults and,
so, incur greater health risks. Parents can provide healthful food choices,
and children should control portion sizes. When controlled early through diet
and exercise interventions, a problem of obesity may correct itself as the
child continues to grow in height.
- During the adolescent growth spurt, both boys and girls have increased needs
for iron and calcium. Inadequate calcium intake by teenage girls is a major
concern because it can set the stage for the development of osteoporosis later
in life. Teenagers generally should moderate their intake of high-fat foods--especially
snacks and quick-service foods, which they often consume in abundance--and
perform regular physical activity.
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2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education