M1 Discuss similarities and differences in the nutritional and energy requirements of 2 groups of individuals
Within this document I will be discussing the similarities and differences in the nutritional and energy requirements of adults and pregnant women. I will be comparing and contrasting their nutritional and energy requirements of adults and pregnant women.
Firstly, adults; once growth has stopped, adults need to maintain their weight, but should try to avoid putting on extra weight. High-fat foods should be kept to a minimum, as they raise cholesterol. Being overweight can also increase the chances of developing arthritis, diabetes and cancer. To reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure, salt should be limited to a certain amount per day. High-sugar foods should be a treat rather than a regular part of the diet. Ideally, alcohol consumption should be limited as well less amounts per day for women than men.
On the other hand pregnant women, extra folic acid should be taken during their first three months of pregnancy, as this is recommended to prevent spina bifida. During the first three months of pregnancy a women needs about an extra 200 calories a day. While-breast-feeding, she will need an extra 500 calories. Extra calcium should be eaten as the developing baby will take what it needs, leaving the mother deficient. This is why women often have to have more dental treatment during pregnancy and for the first year after having a baby, whereas adults don’t need these special treatments. An unborn child needs a healthy and well-nourished mother to grow properly. Therefore, a mother needs to gain weight during pregnancy to help nourish her growing baby. Women who do not gain enough weight often have babies that weigh too little (low birth weight). A baby weighing less than 2.5 kg has an increased chance of both physical and mental health problems.