Topic 2 - Nutritional and dietary needs of different groups of people

Question 1

Young children [ 2 to 5 yrs old]

Answer 1

1. Very young children only have small stomachs so should have small and frequent meals to get the energy they need to live and grow.
2. Calcium is extremely important for this age group to help their bones and teeth grow. 300ml of milk a day will provide all the calcium they need and provide a good source of vitamin A.

Question 2

Children [5-12]

Answer 2

1. Children in this age group are growing steadily and are very active. Therefore they need foods that not only provide nutrients but will also meet their energy needs.
2. Children need protein to grow, carbohydrates and fats to provide energy and calcium and vitamin D for healthy teeth and bone development.
3. Foods high in sugar should only rarely be consumed as they can lead to excessive weight gain and tooth decay.

Question 3

Teenagers:

Answer 3

1. Teenagers should follow the eat well guidelines, aiming for a balanced diet.
2. Rapid growth spurts will occur in the early teens (girls usually earlier than boys). Teenagers need protein to help with growth spurts; boys will need more as muscle tissue develops.
3. Girls in particular need iron and vitamin C, iron is lost during periods so needs to be replaced to stop them become anaemic, vitamin C helps the body absorb iron.
4. Like for children calcium and vitamin D are important to help the bones reach peak density and size.