Comprehensive Guide to Nutrition in Pregnancy, Infancy, Childhood, and Athletic Performance

What physiological changes occur during pregnancy?

Pregnancy involves tremendous physiological changes requiring healthful food and lifestyle choices.

How much do energy and nutrient needs increase during pregnancy?

Energy and nutrient needs increase, but calorie needs only increase by a small percentage.

What types of foods should be prioritized during pregnancy?

Nutrient-rich foods should be prioritized.

What is the role of folic acid during pregnancy?

Folic acid prevents neural tube defects.

What vitamins are crucial for preventing low-birth weight and preterm birth?

Vitamin D and iron are crucial to prevent iron-deficiency anemia and vitamin D insufficiency.

How is the due date calculated in pregnancy?

The due date is calculated as 40 weeks from the start of the last menstrual period.

What physiological changes occur in maternal blood volume during pregnancy?

Maternal blood volume expands by nearly 50%.

What are the key nutrients for red blood cell production during pregnancy?

Iron, folate, and vitamin B12 are key nutrients.

What are the recommendations for maternal weight gain based on BMI?

Recommendations vary: higher for underweight women and lower for overweight and obese women.

What is the average weight gain recommended during pregnancy?

The average recommended gain is 27.5 pounds.

What macronutrient needs increase during pregnancy?

Protein, vitamins, and minerals needs increase to support the fetus and placenta.

What is the recommended protein intake during pregnancy?

The protein RDA in pregnancy is 1.1 g/kg/day.

What is the recommended increase in fiber intake during pregnancy?

The adequate intake for fiber increases from 25 to 28 grams per day.

What is the main source of extra calories during pregnancy?

Carbohydrates provide the main source of extra calories.

What should all women planning for pregnancy take?

It is recommended that all women planning on pregnancy take a multivitamin.

Which B vitamins have increased needs during pregnancy?

Most B vitamins (except biotin) have increased needs during pregnancy.

What dietary approach is not recommended during pregnancy?

Very-low-fat diets are not recommended.

What are the implications of slower gastrointestinal motility during pregnancy?

Slower GI motility leads to greater nutrient absorption but may cause nausea, heartburn, and constipation.

What is the impact of health promotion and education before conception?

Health promotion and education can help screen for risks and improve vitamin and weight status.

How does maternal weight gain affect pregnancy outcomes?

Healthy weight gain has beneficial health outcomes for the peripartum period.

What vitamin increases slightly during pregnancy?

Vitamin A

What are the highest nutrient increases recommended for pregnant women?

Iron and folate

What is the recommended diet for pregnant women?

Similar to the general adult population with additional servings of grains, vegetables, fruits, and low-fat milk.

What should pregnant women avoid consuming?

Alcohol, certain types of fish high in mercury, uncooked meat, seafood, or eggs, unpasteurized juice or milk, deli meat, and excessive caffeine.

What are the risks associated with tobacco use during pregnancy?

Increased risk for miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm delivery, and low birth weight.

What is fetal alcohol syndrome?

A condition resulting from alcohol exposure in the womb, leading to growth retardation and other physical and mental conditions.

What is gestational diabetes?

High blood sugar that develops during pregnancy in women without diabetes.

What is the AAP's recommendation for breastfeeding duration?

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months, with continued breastfeeding through the first year.

What is colostrum?

The first milk produced after delivery, high in protein and immunoglobulins.

What hormone stimulates milk production?

Prolactin

What is the 'let-down' reflex?

The process that allows milk to be released from the breast during breastfeeding.

What is the recommended daily water intake for breastfeeding women?

3.8 liters/day

What are some benefits of breastfeeding for infants?

Optimal nutrition, protection from infections, reduced risk of SIDS, obesity, and improved cognitive development.

What are contraindications to breastfeeding?

Maternal disease, drug use, certain surgeries, and infectious diseases like HIV.

What is the best predictor of an infant's health during the first year?

Birthweight

How much does an infant's weight typically increase by 4 to 6 months?

Double the birth weight

What is the primary source of energy for infants?

Fats and carbohydrates, with a high-fat diet being ideal.

What is the composition of breast milk in terms of protein?

Provides complete protein that is easily digested and absorbed.

What is the recommended feeding frequency for newborns?

Every 2-3 hours, totaling 8-12 feedings per day.

What type of formula should be used when breast milk is not available?

Iron-fortified infant formula.

What are the key vitamins found in breast milk?

Vitamin D, Vitamin K, Vitamin B12, Iron, and Fluoride.

What is the effect of alcohol on breastfeeding?

Alcohol can inhibit the milk ejection reflex and should be avoided for 2 hours after consumption.

What should lactating individuals avoid to ensure infant health?

Alcohol and illicit drugs.

What is the role of fats in an infant's diet?

Fats enhance a baby's sense of fullness and are essential for neurologic development.

What is the significance of growth charts for infants?

They allow comparison of an individual child's growth against a general population of healthy, breastfed infants.

What is the recommended increase in energy intake for breastfeeding women during the first 6 months?

330 kcals/day

What happens to the iron needs of women during lactation?

Iron needs decrease compared to pregnancy.

What is the recommended action if vitamin intake is inadequate during lactation?

Continue prenatal vitamins to ensure adequate nutrient levels.

What is the recommended daily fluid intake for infants?

Approximately 20 fl oz per day.

How often should an adequately fed newborn breastfeed?

8 to 12 times daily.

What are the best indicators of an adequately fed infant?

Normal growth, regular elimination, and a satisfied demeanor.

When should solid foods be introduced to an infant?

When the infant is developmentally ready, around 4-6 months of age.

What are signs of physiological readiness for solid foods?

Digestive enzymes and the ability to maintain hydration.

What developmental readiness indicators suggest an infant is ready for solid foods?

Lack of extrusion reflex and head, neck, and hand control.

What is the recommended approach to introducing new foods to infants?

Introduce one food at a time to monitor for adverse reactions.

What is the average weight gain for children during childhood?

About 4-6 lbs per year.

What are the three age groups in childhood nutrition?

Toddlers (1-3 years), Preschoolers (4-5 years), and School age (6-10 years).

What factors influence childhood food habits?

Caregivers, external factors like television and advertising, and environment.

What percentage of young child deaths worldwide is attributed to undernutrition?

50%.

What is the misused term often associated with food and behavior in children?

Hyperactivity.

What percentage of children and adolescents are overweight or obese?

32%.

What are the nutrient needs during adolescence?

Increased energy and protein needs, particularly for vitamins A, D, calcium, and iron.

What are common nutritional concerns for adolescents?

Obesity, eating disorders, and fitness-related issues.

What are the age-related changes in body composition for older adults?

Increased fat and decreased lean body mass.

What is sarcopenia?

Loss of lean mass and muscle strength that contributes to functional disability.

What is the recommended protein intake for mature adults?

0.8 g/kg body weight.

What are the vitamin D needs for older adults?

Higher needs due to reduced skin synthesis and activation.

What is the role of antioxidants in older adults' diets?

They may protect against oxidative stress and degenerative diseases.

What is the significance of hydration in older adults?

Reduced thirst response makes it crucial to monitor fluid intake.

What are common dietary concerns for older adults?

Osteoporosis, dental health issues, and chronic constipation.

What is the impact of depression on nutrition in older adults?

It may reduce food intake and lead to undernutrition.

What is the definition of health according to the notes?

A state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease.

What are the Healthy People 2030 objectives?

Disease prevention, health promotion, and eliminating health disparities.

What are barriers to healthcare and nutritional foods?

Race/ethnicity, gender, income, education, and geography.

What is the role of caregivers in childhood nutrition?

They have a significant impact on the development of a child's health and nutrition habits.

What is the recommended dietary approach for children with restricted diets?

Supplements may be recommended for malnourished children or those with allergies.

What is the primary goal for overweight children?

Allowing height to catch up with weight rather than focusing on weight loss.

What is obesity classified as?

A chronic disease and major public health problem.

What are some risk factors associated with obesity?

Coronary heart disease, cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and metabolic syndrome.

How does physical activity relate to weight management?

It plays a significant role in long-term weight management.

What is weight bias?

The stigma associated with obesity, often perpetuated by families and healthcare providers.

What dietary components are linked to cardiometabolic disease?

Excess sodium, low intake of nuts and seeds, high intake of processed meats, low intake of seafood, vegetables, fruits, high sugar-sweetened beverages, low whole grains, and polyunsaturated fats.

What is hypercholesterolemia?

High blood cholesterol, a principal risk factor for coronary heart disease.

What is atherosclerosis?

A slow, progressive hardening and narrowing of arteries due to fat and cholesterol deposits.

What lifestyle changes can improve blood cholesterol levels?

Healthy eating, regular exercise, not smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and moderate alcohol consumption.

What is hypertension often referred to as?

The 'silent killer' due to its lack of symptoms.

What are the two types of hypertension?

Essential hypertension (no obvious cause) and secondary hypertension (due to another problem).

What is the DASH diet designed for?

To stop hypertension and lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol.

What are common risk factors for cancer?

Tobacco use, diet, lack of physical activity, and exposure to carcinogens.

What is diabetes mellitus?

A disorder of carbohydrate metabolism characterized by high blood glucose levels due to lack of insulin.

What are the types of diabetes mellitus?

Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.

What is prediabetes?

High blood glucose levels that do not meet the criteria for diabetes diagnosis.

What is metabolic syndrome?

A cluster of at least three risk factors including abdominal obesity, high fasting blood glucose, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and elevated blood pressure.

What are the five components of overall fitness?

Cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, body composition, and flexibility.

What is the recommended physical activity for adults?

150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75-120 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.

What is the relationship between physical activity and chronic disease?

Physical activity reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

What is the role of genetics in disease?

Nearly all diseases have a genetic component along with environmental, nutritional, and lifestyle factors.

What is the significance of maintaining a healthy weight?

It is crucial for reducing the risk of chronic diseases and managing conditions like diabetes and hypertension.

What are dietary recommendations for reducing hypertension?

Maintain a healthy weight, reduce sodium intake, increase potassium intake, engage in regular aerobic activity, and limit alcohol consumption.

What is the impact of stress on hypertension?

Stress can contribute to sustained high blood pressure.