Development Needs

Question 1

Neonate to 1 year

Answer 1

Fluid and nutritional needs are met by breast milk or formula
Addition of solid food to the diet between 4 and 6 months of age
By the age of 1, most infants can be completely fed on table food

Question 2

Toddler

Answer 2

Can eat most foods and adjust to three meals each day
By the age of 3 is able to bite and chew adult table food
Need for adequate iron, calcium, and vitamins C and A are common deficiencies

Question 3

Preschooler

Answer 3

Eat adult foods
Very active and often require snacks between meals
Cheese, fruits, yogurt, raw vegetables, and milk are good choices

Question 4

School-aged

Answer 4

Eat three meals a day and one or two nutritious snacks

Need a protein-rich food at breakfast to sustain the prolonged physical and mental effort required at school

Question 5

Adolescent

Answer 5

Increased need for nutrient and calories during growth spurts
Adequate calcium intake (1200 to 1500 mg/day)
Health snacks and limits on junk foods
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia may occur

Question 6

Adults

Answer 6

Continue to eat a healthy diet, with special attention to protein, calcium, and limiting cholesterol and caloric intake
Two or three liters of fluid should be included in the daily diet
Postmenopausal women need to ingest sufficient calcium and vitamin D to reduce osteoporosis
Antioxidants such as vitamin A, C, and E may be helpful in reducing the risks of heart disease in women

Question 7

Elders

Answer 7

Require the same basic nutrition as the younger adult
Fewer calories are needed by elders because of the lower metabolic rate and the decrease in physical activity
Some may need more carbohydrates for fiber and bulk, but most nutrient requirements remain relatively unchanged
Physical changes as tooth loss and impaired sense of taste and smell may affect eating habits
Decreased saliva and gastric juice secretion may also affect nutrition
Psychosocial factors may also contribute to nutritional problems