Nutrition During Childhood Flashcards
(14 cards)
How much do children typically grow in height and weight each year from age 1 to adolescence?
About 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) taller and 5–6 pounds (2.2–2.7 kg) heavier annually.
What brain and physical developments occur in childhood?
Cognitive, language, emotional, social development; neurons form more synapses; increase in bone density and muscle mass.
What should parents consider about a child’s appetite after 1 year?
Appetite fluctuates with growth and activity; offer high-quality, whole, fresh, seasonal, organic foods; allow children to choose among healthy options.
What is the feeding responsibility dynamic between parents and children?
Parents decide what, when, and where to feed; children decide how much and whether to eat.
Name three strategies to teach good eating habits to children.
Lead by example, make mealtimes pleasant and mindful, encourage chewing and involve children in cooking/gardening.
What factors contribute to childhood obesity?
Eating processed and hyperpalatable foods, reduced physical activity, large portion sizes, and gut dysbiosis.
What are some ways to prevent or manage childhood obesity?
Home-cooked whole foods, eating away from TV, age-appropriate portions, regular enjoyable exercise, and adequate sleep.
What are carbohydrate intake recommendations for children over 1 year old?
Approximately 60–70% of total dietary energy, similar to adults.
Why should fiber intake be lower in young children than adults?
Too much fiber reduces food energy density and decreases micronutrient absorption.
What are the fat intake recommendations for younger children?
Fat intake can be above 30% of total energy for younger children who eat less food; fat is essential for growth.
What are signs of iron deficiency anemia in children?
Fatigue, irritability, loss of appetite, slow growth, pallor, learning difficulties, spoon-shaped nails.
How can iron deficiency anemia be prevented in children?
Avoid processed foods, limit cow’s milk intake, optimize digestion with probiotics/prebiotics, and encourage good chewing.
What should vegetarian/vegan parents ensure for their children’s nutrition?
Adequate calories, DHA, calcium, non-heme iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D through diet and outdoor time.
Is malnutrition more common in vegetarian/vegan children or those eating junk food diets?
More common in children eating junk food diets, not necessarily in vegetarian/vegan children.
