18 - Nutrition and development

Question 1

What causes the phase of maximum growth in childhood and adolescence?

Answer 1

Surges in, and maturation of endocrine systems (somatotropic, hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal, and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis)

Question 2

What are the estimated macronutrient requirements for toddlers?

Answer 2

30-40% from fat
1.1g of protein per kg
130g carbohydrates
14g of fibre per 1000kcal

Question 3

What is the most common nutrient deficiency in young children?
Why could this be?

Answer 3

Iron-deficiency anemia

Lack of reserves, nutrient losses, low bio availability, (foods rich in phytates limit bio availability)

Question 4

Why do phytates (commonly used in weaning), limit the bio availability of micronutrients?

Answer 4

> The phosphate groups of phytic acid are able to chelate cations
reduce bioavailability of minerals such as zinc,
calcium, and magnesium

Question 5

When might physicians recommend supplements?

Answer 5

> Toddlers with erratic eating habits
• Fluoride supplement, if the community water supply is not
fluoridated
• Vegan families
• Medical conditions or dietary restrictions

Question 6

What are the common food allergies in toddlers?

Answer 6

wheat, peanuts, cows milk, soy, citrus, eggs, seafood

Question 7

What are the macronutrient requirements for children?

Answer 7

20-35% from fat
130g carbohydrate per da
14 grams fibre per 1000kcal
0.95g protein per kg

Question 8

Give 3 genetic disorders associated with early onset obesity

Answer 8

> Melanocortin receptor defects
FTO polymorphisms
Prader-Willi (chromosome 15)
Leptin receptor defects

Question 9

In adolescents, Skeletal growth ceases closure of the _______, causing bone growth.

Answer 9

Skeletal growth ceases closure of the

epiphyseal plates

Question 10

How many grams of fibre do adolescents need per day?

How many grams per kg?

Answer 10

26-38

0.85g per kg protein

Question 11

What micronutrients are important for adolescent growth?

Answer 11

Calcium intakes must be sufficient for achieving
peak bone density: 1,300 mg/day
• Iron needs are relatively high: 11 -15 mg/day
• Vitamin A is critical for supporting rapid growth
and development
• Folate, zinc, vitamin B6 and cobalimin

Question 12

What are some genetic risk factors for anorexia nervosa?

Answer 12

> serotonin receptor (5HT2a)
oestrogen receptor (ERβ)/
brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) gene
oxytocin

Question 13

Give 4 physiological damage related to bulimia nervosa

Answer 13

> loss of gut peristalsis and associated colonic problems
Electrolyte imbalances and dehydration
Damage to the salivary glands
Malabsorption of fat soluble vitamins leading to deficiency
Esophagitis
Erosion of dental enamel