Nutrition requirements across the lifespan, from pregnancy to adulthood

Nutrition is very important at each different stage of the life cycle. 

When a woman is pregnant, she doesn't only need to have the proper nutrition for herself, but for the fetus as well. When someone who is pregnant does not have the proper nutrition, the fetus can become obese or obtain a chronic illness later in life. Low birth weight is also a possibility, which can cause several problems. It’s also important for a woman whom is pregnant to have a healthy placenta, and organs as well. As a woman gets further in her pregnancy, she needs an increase in energy. This can be done by adding an additional 340 calories daily during the second trimester, and an additional 450 calories during the third trimester. Woman who are pregnant should also take a prenatal vitamin daily, to help them get the proper nutrition.

Once the baby is born, the infant will need the proper nutrients to grow. Our text says that “a baby grows faster during the first year of life than ever again”. Breastmilk is of course, the best way to get nutrients for a baby, but when breastmilk isn’t an option, there is formula out there which is the best alternative to breastfeeding for infants. As an infant gets older, they can try soft foods, such as jar baby food, and then they can eventually move onto solids.

Throughout a person’s childhood and adolescence it’s important for them to eat the correct types of foods, and to be taught how and what to eat. It’s important to teach this at a young age, so they will be able to eat correctly their entire lives. There are many ways to introduce new foods to children, and to make it fun for them to try new foods. The correct nutrients and types of foods will help an individual grow healthy and to avoid diseases and to maintain a healthy weight.

As an adult, it’s still important to remain healthy and to obtain a healthy weight. We learned earlier that 30-40% of cancers are caused due to lack of health and nutrition. This is something that can possibly be avoided if we continue to watch what we eat, and consume the correct nutrients that our body needs. Other diseases such as diabetes, and thyroid problems can also be decreased with proper nutrition and vitamins.