Age is one of the most important factors which determine what a person must eat and what should he/she leave. There are different nutritional requirements for different ages. The nutritional and food requirement of a baby may be different from that of a teenager which would in turn be very contrasting from an adult.
Therefore one must be conscious about what food suits his/her stage of life or age. Our nutritional needs change rapidly with age and to be fit one must keep in mind the kind of changes our body demands. Here’s a write up about the kinds of food requirement a person has at different stages in life:
Foods for Babies
Breastmilk is an important food for babies up to the age of one since they grow a lot during this time. Solids must be introduced at the age of 6 months and some other nutrients a baby up to the age 1 needs are iron, zinc, infant cereals, pureed meats and milk. Foods such as fruits and vegetables can be introduced and even fish and eggs can be given.
Foods for Young Children
After the child starts eating solids, they can be given a wide range of foods with nutritional value. Reduced fat milk is definitely not suggested and water and fruit juices must be really focused upon. Avoid given the child sugary foods in order to avoid tooth decay. Avoid giving foods which may causes any kind of an allergy.
Foods for Children Entering their Teenage Years
At this period of a person’s life, adequate amount of nutrients must be given as this is the most important growing period. Fast foods must be avoided and the focus must be on foods such as wholegrain, breads, cereals, fruits, legumes, vegetables and nuts. Milk, yogurt and cheese should also be given in plenty. Cheese should be given in the low salt variety.
Foods for Older Teenagers and Young Adults
This is the time when the lifestyle changes and so should the food requirements. Alcohol must be consumed in limited amounts at this time and focus should be given to physical activities and physical work. The amount of salt, fats should be limited and calcium should be taken in plenty.
Food for Older People
A well balanced diet and regular exercise is very important at this stage in life. Nutritional dense foods such as eggs, fish, lean meats, nuts and seeds must be given focus to and high fiber diet must be taken.
