Nutritional Requirements at Different Stages of Life

Running head: FOOD NUTRITION
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Title: Nutritional Requirements at Different Stages of Life

FOOD NUTRITION
Nutrition needs
Different stages in life require different nutrients so as to maintain the body at good
health and keep away deficiency infections. These nutrients that the body requires at different
life stages are called nutritional requirements. The nutritional requirements of people change
as they age with changes in calories, minerals, vitamins and protein needs. A balanced diet
has to be maintained throughout the life span of and individual; from infancy to old age so as
to live a long, healthy life. Mayo Clinic (2018) claim that mother’s milk contains the best
nutrients and antibodies for the growth of babies. In absence of mother’s milk, bottled milk
can be provided as an alternative. After about 6 months, solid food can be introduced as per
the nutritionist’s guide.
According to Koletzko (2008), a primary school kid requires a variety of food from
every food group and frequent exercise, though they may face challenges as choice of their
nutrition depends on what is provided in school, influence from friends and the media. To
obtain an optimum nutrition for children aged 9 to 15 years, three meals and two snacks a day
should be maintained. Consumption of high sugars and fatty foods should be discouraged.
Their diet should be rich in vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates and low fats served with milk or
cheese for calcium. Children are physically active and therefore their dietary needs are high
and critical. Bier, German and Lonnerdal (2008) think that the diet of a school going child
should contain at least 1400-2200 of calories, 4 to 6 ounces of proteins, 1.5 to 2 cups of fruits
and vegetables, about 5 to 7 ounces of grains and about 3 cups of dairy.
For teenagers and adolescents, it could be difficult to deal with the changing body
shape. This might lead them to change their eating habits. A teenager requires high levels of
carbohydrates for their brain and muscle activity. They are also good sources fibre and
vitamin B (WHO, 2006). Vegetables and fruits are important sources of vitamins and