Nutritional considerations for specific groups in Australia

Question 1

Adolescent girls

Answer 1

They need extra nutrients caused by GROWTH and MENSTRUATION

1. greater amount of ENERGY during their growth period. 8100 - 13500 kilojoule required
2. IRON - need extra iron because of losses in menstruation. low leads to feeling tired, lack of concentration + suffer more from infections. 14-18yos (8mg/day) while others require 15mg/day. [Vitamin C increases iron absorption]
3. PROTEIN and B-GROUP VITAMINS - building new body tissue like muscles during growth –> increases demand for B-group vitamins - involved in protein synthesis and releasing energy from proteins, lipids and carbohydrates
4. MINERALS - higher intake of CALCIUM and PHOSPHORUS - bones to grow longer and thicker. Inadequate –> affect future bone strength

Question 2

Pregnant and lactating women

Answer 2

1. FOLATE - prevent neural tube defects in the infant. Consume additional 0.4 mg/day in the form of folic acid supplement
2. MINERALS - higher intake of CALCIUM and PHOSPHORUS - bones to grow and develop. Need dairy + balance, variety and plenty of water

Question 3

Postmenopausal women

Answer 3

1. CALCIUM - lack of oestrogen leads to increase in osteoporosis. Calcium prevents this + help keep blood, muscles and nerves to work at optimum levels
2. VITAMIN D - absorbs calcium
3. REDUCED INTAKE OF SATURATED FATS - protect against heart diseases. Consumption of some fats like oily fish –> reduced risk of both heart disease and diabetes
4. ACTIVE NON-NUTRIENTS - phytoestrogen has similar structure to oestrogen –> ease discomfort

Question 4

The elderly

Answer 4

1. Maintain a good supply of CALCIUM and PHOSPHORUS for bone and teeth health
2. reduce the supply of energy dense foods due to a more sedentary lifestyle –> have cupboards well stocked with healthy foods that can keep for a long time
3. Little room for highly processed foods or alcohol

The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating provides a good dietary framework for the elderly to follow

Question 5

People with health conditions

Answer 5

1. Coeliac disease - diet would have fibre from sources other than wheat
2. Lactose intolerant - eat other foods high in calcium and phosphorus

Question 6

Athletes

Answer 6

1. Drinking water
2. Correct balance of energy dense foods
3. Protein to build and maintain muscle mass