Needs of Individuals

Question 1

why do babies and infants need a nutritious diet?

Answer 1

because they grow very quickly during the first few weeks of life

Question 2

how do babies get all essential nutrients when they cannot eat food?

Answer 2

breast milk or bottle milk formulas

Question 3

how long do infants only consume milk for?

Answer 3

6-8 months

Question 4

advantages of breast feeding for the baby?

Answer 4

• easy to digest
• more hygienic
• contains omega-3 which is useful for brain development
• contains antibodies to protect against illness

Question 5

advantages of breastfeeding for the mother/family?

Answer 5

• no cost
• helps mother and baby bond
• lower risk of breast cancer
• uses energy so helps mother lose fat stores gained in pregnancy

Question 6

advantages of formula milk for the baby?

Answer 6

• monitor exactly how much the baby is taking in
• less risk of malnutrition if mum is not producing enough milk
• suits dietary needs

Question 7

advantages of formula milk for mother/family?

Answer 7

• allows mum time to rest
• shared responsibility within the family
• allows mum to go back to work/hobbies

Question 8

what is weaning?

Answer 8

introducing a baby to solid foods, starting when the baby is about 6 months old

Question 9

what should weaning foods contain?

Answer 9

iron - babies are born with an iron store which will last 4-6 months

Question 10

what shouldn’t weaning foods contain?

Answer 10

any added salt, sugar or additives

Question 11

why is iron and vitamin C needed for toddlers and young children?

Answer 11

iron is needed to carry oxygen in the blood around the body. with a lack or iron, the child may feel tired and risk becoming anaemic

Question 12

why are carbohydrates needed for toddlers and young children?

Answer 12

carbohydrates are needed to provide energy for all activities. with a lack of carbs in the diet, the child may be too tired to partake in essential early life activities such as walking or playing

Question 13

why do toddlers and young children need protein?

Answer 13

protein is essential for the growth, repair and maintenance of body cells and tissues. this is particularly needed for children as they are growing

Question 14

why do toddlers and young children need vitamin B?

Answer 14

vitamin B helps to release energy from carbohydrates. this is needed to ensure that the child has enough energy and does not get tired

Question 15

why do toddlers and young children need calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D?

Answer 15

these nutrients work together in order to maintain strength in bones and teeth which is essential for children to ensure that they have strong bones and therefore reduces the risk of osteoporosis