Nutrition & Lifecycle Guidelines

• Discuss recommended guidelines for physical activity and nutrition during pregnancy. (USLO 10.1)
• Identify recommended guidelines for nutrition in infancy. (USLO 10.2)
• Discuss how a child’s nutrient needs will change throughout childhood and into adolescents. (USLOs 10.3, 10.4)
• Discuss differences in energy needs between older and young adults. (USLO 10.5)

• Discuss recommended guidelines for physical activity and nutrition during pregnancy.,

• Identify recommended guidelines for nutrition in infancy.,

• Discuss how a child’s nutrient needs will change throughout childhood and into adolescents.,

• Discuss differences in energy needs between older and young adults.,

• Prompt Choices: Choose two to discuss.

Comprehensive General Answer

(Below, I choose two topics and discuss them thoroughly.)

1. Recommended Guidelines for Physical Activity and Nutrition During Pregnancy (USLO 10.1)

Proper nutrition and physical activity during pregnancy are essential for maternal health, fetal development, and positive birth outcomes. Nutrient needs increase because the body supports both maternal tissue growth and fetal development. Pregnant individuals should consume balanced meals that include lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. Key nutrients include folate (to prevent neural tube defects), iron (for expanded blood volume), calcium and vitamin D (for bone development), and omega-3 fatty acids (for fetal brain and vision development). A moderate increase in calories is recommended—energy needs rise slightly in the first trimester but increase by roughly 340 additional calories per day in the second trimester and 450 additional calories per day in the third trimester.

Physical activity is also encouraged unless medically restricted. Most guidelines, including recommendations from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), advise at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Walking, swimming, stationary cycling, and prenatal yoga are safe, while contact sports, activities with fall risk, or heavy lifting should be avoided. Exercise helps manage weight gain, reduces risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension, improves mood, and supports endurance for labor. Adequate hydration, prenatal vitamins, and consistent medical monitoring ensure both safety and nutritional sufficiency throughout the pregnancy.

2. Identify Recommended Guidelines for Nutrition in Infancy (USLO 10.2)

Infancy is a period of rapid physical and cognitive growth, and nutritional needs are unique during this stage. Breast milk is considered the optimal source of nutrition for at least the first six months of life because it contains ideal proportions of nutrients, antibodies, enzymes, and protective factors. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months, with continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods until at least 12 months. For infants who do not breastfeed, iron-fortified infant formula is recommended to support healthy development. Cow’s milk, plant-based milk alternatives, and other beverages should be avoided during the first year because they do not provide sufficient fat, iron, or essential micronutrients.

Infants require a higher percentage of calories from fat, which is crucial for brain and nervous system development. Around 6 months of age, when developmental readiness occurs (sitting with support, showing interest in food), complementary foods should be introduced. Iron-rich foods—such as fortified cereals, pureed meats, and legumes—are essential because infant iron stores begin to decline after the first six months. Soft fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are gradually added to encourage nutrient variety. Foods that pose choking hazards, added sugars, excess salt, and honey (risk of botulism) should be avoided. Developing a predictable feeding routine and allowing infants to self-regulate intake helps set the foundation for healthy eating behaviors later in life.