Childhood 2 Flashcards
What are the main components of total energy expenditure (TEE) in children?
TEE consists of basal metabolism, physical activity, thermic effect of food, and energy deposition for growth.
Why are EER equations for children 6 months to 3 years not separated by activity level?
It is assumed that children in this age group have little to no voluntary physical activity as they are still learning to move.
What are the 3 Canadian 24-hour movement guidelines for children aged 5-17 years?
At least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily, muscle-strengthening exercises 3 times per week, several hours of unstructured light physical activity, 9-11 hours of sleep (ages 5-13) or 8-10 hours (ages 14-17), and no more than 2 hours of recreational screen tim
How do protein requirements change as children age?
Protein requirements per kg decrease as body size increases:
1-3 years: 1.05 g/kg (13 g/day)
4-8 years: 0.95 g/kg (19 g/day)
9-13 years: 0.95 g/kg (34 g/day)
Adults: 0.8 g/kg (60 g/day for a 75 kg adult)
Why do younger children have a higher AMDR for fat compared to older children?
Fat provides energy-dense foods necessary for growth:
Ages 1-3: 30-40% of energy
Ages 4-18: 25-35% of energy
Adults: 20-35% of energy
How is iron requirement in children determined?
Using the factorial method, iron needs are based on:
Daily losses (urine, feces, skin)
New tissue growth, including RBC production
Storage (especially after depletion of iron stores at 6 months)
Menstrual losses (after puberty)
What are the RDAs for iron in childhood?
1-3 years: 7 mg/day
4-8 years: 10 mg/day
9-13 years: 8 mg/day (stores assumed to be replete)
For plant-based diets, RDA is 1.8 times higher due to lower bioavailability.
Why does calcium intake increase as children age?
Calcium is needed for bone growth and peak bone mass development:
1-3 years: 700 mg/day
4-8 years: 1000 mg/day
9-13 years: 1300 mg/day
Are Canadian children meeting their nutrient needs through diet alone?
Most children meet protein and iron needs, but vitamin D and calcium intake declines with age. Many exceed sodium recommendations due to high processed food intake.
Why is maximizing bone mass in childhood important?
Higher peak bone mass reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures later in life.
What dietary patterns are associated with increased chronic disease risk in children?
High intake of ultra-processed foods and sedentary lifestyles are linked to obesity and increased chronic disease risk.
How is BMI-for-age used to assess children’s growth?
BMI-for-age percentiles classify weight status:
<3rd percentile: Wasted
85th percentile: Overweight (5-19 years)
97th percentile: Obese (5-19 years)
99.9th percentile: Severely obese (5-19 years)
What is adiposity rebound, and why is it important?
Adiposity rebound is the point at which BMI reaches its lowest (~5-6 years old) before increasing again. Early adiposity rebound is a risk factor for later obesity.
What are common feeding challenges in children?
Decreased appetite, changing food preferences, food neophobia (fear of new foods), food jags (only eating certain foods), and picky eating.
How should parents handle decreased appetite in children?
Let children regulate their intake without pressure. Offer nutritious options and maintain consistent meal schedules.
What is food neophobia, and how can it be managed?
Food neophobia is reluctance to try new foods. Management strategies include repeated exposure (10-20 times), involving children in meal preparation, and avoiding pressure or coercion.
What is the difference between picky eating and feeding issues?
Picky eating is normal if growth and nutrient intake are adequate. Feeding issues may involve dysphagia, choking, vomiting, or weight loss.
Why is excessive sugar intake a concern for children’s health?
High sugar intake is associated with dental caries, obesity, and displacement of nutrient-dense foods.
How do sugars contribute to dental caries?
Bacteria in the mouth ferment sugars, producing acid that damages tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
How can parents reduce sugar-related health risks in children?
Limit sugary beverages and snacks, encourage good oral hygiene, and provide nutrient-dense alternatives.
What are the primary dietary concerns for children’s growth and health?
Adequate intake of protein, iron, and calcium, limiting processed foods, and encouraging physical activity.
Why is modeling healthy eating behaviors important for children?
Children learn eating habits from parents and caregivers, making family meals crucial for promoting nutritious food choices.
What role does the division of responsibility play in childhood feeding?
Parents decide what, when, and where food is offered; children decide whether and how much to eat.
How can caregivers encourage healthy eating habits in children?
Provide a variety of healthy foods, avoid food as a reward/punishment, and foster a positive mealtime environment.
