Biology (Mader), 10th Edition

Chapter 34: Digestive Systems and Nutrition

Relationship of Nutrient Needs to Age and Gender

Why do nutrient needs vary between men and women? Humans are a sexually dimorphic species of animal. The term sexually dimorphic refers to males and females differing in many details of anatomy beyond the differences in the reproductive organs. In humans males are taller, heavier and have more muscular development of the upper body among many other differences. These differences are related to nutritional needs. Males need more of most nutrients during childhood and adolescence in order to attain larger sizes. Women require extra iron following sexual maturity due to the loss of blood during the menstrual cycle. During pregnancy and while breast feeding women also need extra nutrition.

View the animation below, then complete the quiz to test your knowledge of the concept.



1.

What is the vitamin C requirement for a 20 year old male?
A)75 mg/d
B)85 mg/d
C)90 mg/d
D)15 mg/d
2.

In adulthood, do males or females generally have higher vitamin A requirements?
A)females
B)males
C)they both have the same vitamin A needs
D)neither needs vitamin A
3.

Which of the following groups have the highest folate requirements?
A)non-pregnant 19-30 year old females
B)19-30 year old males
C)51-70 year old males
D)pregnant 19-30 year old females
4.

Which of the following groups have the highest iron requirements?
A)non-pregnant 19-30 year old females
B)19-30 year old males
C)non-pregnant 14-18 year old females
D)14-18 year old males
5.

In adulthood, do males or females generally have higher magnesium requirements?
A)females
B)males
C)they both have the same magnesium needs
D)neither needs magnesium
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