Child Nutrition

Question 1

How long does WHO recommend exclusive breastfeeding for?

Answer 1

The first 6 months.

Question 2

What are the stages of child food development?

Answer 2

Pureed
Lumps
Finger foods
Independence

Question 3

At what age should solids be introduced into the diet?

Answer 3

6 months

Question 4

What types of foods should be introduced into the diet initially?

Answer 4

Iron rich foods (e.g. baby cereals, pureed meat, legumes), no extra fats, sugar or salt.

Question 5

At what age does milk stop being the main source of nutrition?

Answer 5

12 months

Question 6

If atopic family history, what should you avoid and until what age?

Answer 6

Avoid fairy and eggs until 12 months and nuts until after 3-5 years.

Question 7

Why do kids need good food?

Answer 7

1. Nutrients for good health and vitality
2. Optimal growth and development
3. Concentration and behaviour
4. To prevent iron deficiency anaemia, poor weight gain, constipation and tooth decay
5. To help fight illnesses such as colds and improve wound healing.
6. To help prevent lifestyle diseases such as obesity, heart disease, diabetes, some cancers and osteoporosis.

Question 8

What are the main micronutients of concern for young children?

Answer 8

Iron and calcium

Question 9

What are the fluid requirements for children?

Answer 9

1-3 years: 1 litre/day
4-8 years: 1.2 litres/day

This can be water, low fat milk of 50:50 juice as a ‘sometimes’ food

Question 10

At what stage to energy needs reduce?

Answer 10

2 years of age

Question 11

What are the signs of iron and calcium deficiency?

Answer 11

Fatigue, pale skin and anaemia, reduced ability to concentrate and fight infections.

Question 12

What is the RDI of iron for children?

Answer 12

6-8mg/day

Question 13

What is the RDI of calcium for children?

Answer 13

800 mg/day