Diet through the lifecycle

Question 1

Give short notes on the nutritional-related concerns of pre-conception and conception

Answer 1

Avoid smoking as it damages tissue in the womb and makes it difficult to get pregnant.

Avoid alcohol as it increases the risk of miscarriage and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)

High BMI increase the risk of hypertension, gestational diabetes, caesarean delivery.

Low BMI can increase the risk of preterm birth (before 37 weeks and birth weight lower than 5.5 pounds). Infants are also at a higher risk of developing problems later

Micronutrient deficiency can cause intra-uterine growth restriction and a higher risk of motility and morbidity

Question 2

What should mothers take before and during pregnancy

Answer 2

Folate, iron, Vitamins A and calcium to avoid neural tube defects

Question 3

Give short notes on the nutritional-related concerns of Toddlers (1-5 years)

Answer 3

A, C, D supplements

1 to 3 years need 300ml whole milk - calcium is needed for strong bones

Healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and omegas are encouraged for growth and rapid brain development - Excess fat remains a concern however, can predispose child to being obese and overweight

Protein for growth, and development, prevents tooth decay

Avoid excess sugar

Fibre is needed to prevent constipation

Question 4

Give short notes on the nutritional-related concerns of Adolescence (ages 10 to 19)

Answer 4

Calcium and Vit D are vital for development.

Iron is needed for growth and to cover menstrual losses

Balanced healthy diet

Limit junk food and foods high in sugar to decrease the chances of obesity and other chronic diseases developing

Question 5

Give short notes on the nutritional-related concerns of Adult to old age

Answer 5

Malnutrition: due to reduced appetite, changes in taste, dental problems, limited mobility

Micronutrient deficiencies: vit D, Vit B12, Calcium and iron (grec supplement intake)

Dehydration: due to reduced fluid intake. Meds and decreased kidney function cause UTI/constipation/ confusion

Digestion: decrease the production of digestive enzymes/gut motility = nutrient absorption impairment

Chronic disease: higher chance of developing diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension

Less active, muscle atrophy, BMR (loss of bone mass), risk of falls and fractures