Nutrition and feeding Flashcards
Why are nutrients important for babies?
Children’s brains are developing rapidly so they need food rich in vitamins and minerals. They may not develop to their full potential without the right nutrients.
What are the nutritional requirements?
- Energy
- Proteins
- Fats
- Carbohydrates
- Vitamins and minerals
Why is energy important?
Infants have high energy needs per unit of body weight to support rapid growth and development
Why is protein important?
Essential for the growth, development and the functioning of the immunisation system. Breast milk and formula provide adequate protein
Why are fats important?
Critical for brain development. Found in breast milk and many infant formulas
Why are carbohydrates important?
The main source of energy in an infant’s diet, primarily provided by lactose in breast milk and formula
Why are vitamins and minerals important?
important for growth and development. For instance, Vitamin D is essential for bone health and iron is important for brain development
Why choose breast milk?
- Provides the ideal balance of nutrients tailored to the infant’s developmental needs and changes in composition over time to meet the baby’s growing requirements
- Contains antibodies that protect against diseases and infections
Why choose infant formula?
An alternative when breastfeeding is not possible. Scientifically developed to mimic breast milk’s nutritional profile. They’re fortified with necessary nutrients, and some specifically designed for those with allergies or other dietary needs
How do parents choose between breastfeeding or infant formula?
It comes down to personal preferences, medical considerations, informed choices and convenience. The decision is circumstantial
Name the stages of breast milk
- Colostrum (Day 1 to Day 4)
- Transitional Milk (Day 5 to Day 20)
- Mature Milk (Day 20 onwards)
Describe the characteristics of the first stage of breast milk
Colostrum: thick, yellowish colour, rich in nutrients, antibodies and immune factors. Provides essential nutrients to newborns and helps strengthen their immune system
What are the health benefits of Colostrum?
- Nutrition
- Immune protection
- Gut health: Helps establish a balance of gut bacteria in newborns, promoting digestive health and reduce risk of gastrointestinal issues
- Bonding
What are the advantages of breastfeeding?
- Optimal nutrition
- Health benefits for the infant and mother
- Emotional bonding
- Economical: Less expensive
What are the disadvantages of breastfeeding?
- Physically demanding
- Dietary restrictions: Mothers might need to avoid certain foods, like caffeine, alcohol or seafood
- Time and frequency
- Work and lifestyle
What are the health benefits to the infant from breastfeeding?
Reduced risks of asthma, obesity, type 1 diabetes, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It also provides immunological protection
What are the health benefits to the mother from breastfeeding?
Lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, type 2 cancers, and postpartum depression. It may also help in faster weight loss after birth
What are the advantages of formula feeding?
- Flexibility: Others can feed the baby
- Dietary independence
- Convenience: Easier for mothers who return to work or cannot breastfeed for medical reasons
- Predictability: Easier to measure how much the baby is consuming
What are the disadvantages of formula feeding?
- Nutritional difference: Formula lacks the antibodies in breast milk
- Preparation time and cost
- Digestive issues: Constipation
- Health implications: Formula-fed babies have a slightly higher risk of developing diabetes or obesity later in life
When should solid foods be introduced to children?
Typically recommended around 6 months of age
How do you know when babies are ready for solid foods?
- Able to sit up with minimal support
- Shows good neck and head control
- Shows curiosity about food
- Able to swallow food rather than push it back out onto the chin
How should solid foods be introduced to babies?
Gradually, starting with iron-rich foods while continuing breastfeeding or formula feeding
What are the 5 important types of nutrients?
Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fat, Vitamins, Minerals + Water
What nutrient should first foods be filled with?
Rich in iron. Iron from breast milk or formula may no longer meet the baby’s growing needs. Examples are cereals, pureed meats, cooked and pureed beans or lentils
