Nutrition Through the Life Cycle

Toddlers (Ages 1-3)

Growth:
- Rapid growth of infancy begins to slow down.
- Average weight gain: 5.5 to 7.5 pounds.
- Increased activity starts around age one.
Nutritional Needs:
- Macronutrient breakdown:
  - 30-40% of calories from fat.
  - 1.1 g protein per kg body weight/day.
  - 30 g carbohydrates and 14 g fiber per 1,000 calories.
- Adequate calcium, iron (common deficiency), and fluid (1.3 L/day) intake is critical due to active lifestyles.
- Supplements may be beneficial due to inconsistent eating habits, but should not exceed % of daily value.
Food Habits:
- Children can self-regulate their food intake when provided a variety of nutritious options.
- Avoid forcing children to eat everything on their plates.
- Engaging children in food preparation increases their interest in eating.
- Be aware of portion sizes: toddler portions differ from adult portions.

Growth:
- Steady growth of about 2-4 inches per year.
Nutritional Needs:
- DRI values same for boys and girls, decrease in total fat intake towards 25-35%.
- Nutrient intake concerns continue, especially Vitamins A, C, E, calcium, iron, and zinc.
- Adequate fluid intake of about 1.7 liters/day; supplements useful for picky eaters.
Food Choices:
- Teach children healthy eating, differentiating between nutritious foods and occasional treats.
- Eating a balanced breakfast is crucial for overall health and academic performance.
- School nutrition programs need improvement for healthier choices.

Growth:
- Slow and steady growth influenced by hormonal changes during puberty.
Nutritional Needs:
- Macronutrient needs increase, particularly for calcium and iron.
- Daily fluid requirements: 2.1 liters for females, 2.4 liters for males.
Food Choices:
- Children start making independent food choices influenced by peers and media.
- Healthy role models can promote better eating habits.

Growth:
- Significant growth spurts, especially through puberty.
- Weight and body composition changes.
Nutritional Needs:
- Increased caloric needs based on activity, age, gender, and body composition.
- Macronutrients: 25-35% total energy from fat, 45-65% from carbohydrates.
- Importance of calcium, vitamin D for bone density and overall health.
Food Choices:
- Eating habits can be influenced heavily by peers.
- A focus on balanced diets over fast food due to availability and convenience.
Concerns:
- Increased risk for eating disorders and body image issues.

Physiological Changes:
- Decreased muscle mass, increased fat, lower energy needs due to reduced activity.
- Changes in taste and smell affecting food intake.
Nutritional Needs:
- Increase in calcium and vitamin D, decrease in iron.
- Fluid intake recommendation: 3.7 L for men, 2.7 L for women.
Concerns:
- Chronic diseases are more prevalent in obese individuals.
- Social, financial, mobility challenges impacting nutritional intake.
- Importance of proper medical supervision regarding medications affecting nutrition.

Caloric Restriction:
- Reducing calorie intake can lead to various potential health benefits but has ethical concerns regarding malnutrition.
Intermittent Fasting:
- A newer trend that alters food consumption patterns with some positive indications from animal studies.
Supplements:
- Market is full of antiaging claims, but lack of research supporting efficacy.
- High intake levels may pose risks.
Healthy Lifestyle Recommendations:
- Regular exercise, balanced meals, only recommended supplements, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and moderate alcohol consumption are key to longevity.