Nutrition affects every stage of the life cycle beginning from conception to adult life. With that being the case, it is important that before pregnancy both the mother and father should establish healthy eating habits that will provide proper nourishment for the mother and fetus (Sizer & Whitney, 2013).
Adequate nutrition before pregnancy establishes physical readiness and nutrient stores to support placental and fetal growth (Sizer & Whitney, 2013, pg. 513). A healthy pregnancy and optimal infant development depend heavily on the mother's diet (Sizer & Whitney, 2013, pg. 516)
During Pregnancy...
Implantation, fetal development, and critical period development depend on maternal nutrition status (Sizer & Whitney, 2013, pg 514). Energy needs are increased for the mother during this period. Some nutrients are needed more than others. For example, and extra 340 and 450 calories are needed daily during the second and third trimester (Sizer & Whitney, 2013), and protein increases by 25 grams. During this period is when lactation begins, which requires a diet rich in nutrients. Also, bone development, protein synthesis, and cell development occurs, which requires an increase in vitamin D, calcium, iron, and zinc.
During Infancy/Childhood...
The infancy and childhood period is critical for growth and development. Proper nutrition is critical during this period. It provides protection against infections, normal brain development, bone density, lengthening of long bones, and an increase in musculature (Sizer & Whitney, 2013)
It is recommended that mothers breastfeed for the first six months of infancy. Between 4-6 months is when solid foods can be introduced, which provides necessary nutrients that is no longer adequate from breast milk (Sizer & Whitney, 2013). To provide all the needed nutrients, children's meals should include a variety of foods from each food group in amounts suited to their appetites and needs (Sizer & Whitney, 2013, pg. 557).
Nutrient deficiencies in children can cause
displays of physical and behavioral symptoms.
It can cause children to be irritable, aggressive, and or have many other
displays of negative emotions or feelings.
Healthy eating habits for children
are learned at a young age in most cases from the habits of their parents.During Adolescence and Adult Years...
Nutrient needs are greater in
adolescence than at any other time in the life cycle, except during pregnancy.
The energy requirements for ages fourteen to eighteen are 1,800 to 2,400
calories for girls and 2,000 to 3,200 calories for boys, depending on activity
level (Zimmerman & Snow,
n.d., para. 4). Micronutrient
recommendations are mostly the same as for adults (Zimmerman & Snow, n.d.). The most important micronutrients for
adolescents are calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A, and iron (Zimmerman & Snow, n.d., para.
7).
Nutrients, such as protein, remains
about the same for people older than young adults. Due to the decrease of energy, lean protein
is needed to maintain a healthy weight.
During adulthood, more fiber is needed.
Foods such as fruits and vegetable provide needed fiber, which help
fight off chronic diseases (Sizer & Whitney, 2013). Furthermore, consuming recommended essential
fatty acids helps maintain good health,
and reduces the risk of developing heart disease.
Nutritional choices are critical from the beginning of
the life cycle and influences overall health and wellness (Zimmerman
& Snow, n.d.). Poor
nutritional habits that start at a young age will impact your health into the
later stages of life (Zimmerman & Snow, n.d.). Bottom line is that nutritious foods form the
foundation of a healthy life at every age (Zimmerman
& Snow, n.d.). Reference
Sizer, F. S., & Whitney, E. (2013). Nutrition concepts & controversies
(13th ed.). [Vitalsource Bookshelf version]. Retrieved from
http://online.vitalsource.com/#/books/9781285785981/pages/269964551
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