Nutritional Requirements

The nutritional requirements for pregnancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood are different for every person. This is why there is no one set nutrition plan for everyone. 

A woman that wants to get pregnant needs to prepare with plenty of nutrients way before pregnancy, so that her body will be able to handle and maintain a pregnancy. A pregnant woman needs higher amounts of nutrients, including the vitamins B12 and folate. These protect the baby from neural tube defects. The proper development at each stage for the growing baby relies on the nutrients that are provided from the mother. This delicate develop can be delayed or interfered when deficiencies are present during that time. For example, vitamin D in appropriate amounts during pregnancy helps the fetal bone development. Other important nutrients include iron and zinc, for both mother and baby. 

Infants can receive all that is needed from a mother's breast milk, including essential fatty acids, to help the fragile intestinal tract. Proper transition from breast milk to cow's milk and solid foods can help the baby grow and prevent additional health problems that can occur when food is introduced too early. Infants between 4 to 6 months usually start to show interest in solid foods. Attention to vitamin C and iron in an infant's diet can assist the infant's fast growth and changes, which would include introduction of fruits and vegetables prepared in a way that the infant can eat. The needs change as the infant grows into a child. Supplying a child with adequate nutrition, which gives variety and enough nutrients, can set the path for healthy habits. Children can be picky eats, but with patience and different choices, a child can continue to be nourished. Children that are malnourished and nutrient deficient can suffer from physical and mental problems.

Adolescence is a time of tremendous change for the developing teenager. It also tends to be accompanied with a busy schedule, which means teenagers often reach for quick foods to eat. Teenage girls may experience a decrease in growth, which means it would be wise to watch calorie intake to avoid extra weight during these body changes. In addition, girls need extra iron, due to the start of menstruation during adolescence. Boys need plenty of nutrition to keep up with the demands of activity and body development, which may mean additional calories for them. Bones are still growing in adolescence, so calcium-rich foods can help the bones stay strong and healthy. Teenagers that follow a processed, junk filled diet also develop acne that causes irritation and inflammation on the skin. Lowering intake of dairy and refined carbohydrates can decrease acne. 

Infants, children, and teenagers have adults to help guide them in daily food choices. However, adults rely on self-discipline and individual choice to determine dietary means. The needs may change as an adult ages, which is why paying attention to necessary dietary needs is crucial to healthy aging. This also includes other healthy lifestyle choices, such as consistent exercise and avoiding substance abuse. Lack of nutrients in the later years can severely impact the digestive tract, hormones, dental health, sensory organs, and weight. "Getting adequate nutrition can be a challenge as you get older. With age, the number of calories you need begins to decline. Every calorie you consume must be packed with nutrition in order to hit the mark" (Jaret, 2014, para 1). 

Jaret, P. (2014). Older Adults: 9 Nutrients You May Be Missing. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/nutrition-world-2/missing-nutrients