Nutrient Recommendations for Nonpregnant, Pregnant, and Lactating Women
Nutrient Recommendations for Nonpregnant, Pregnant, and Lactating Women in text and compare the recommended percent allowances for:
Iron – Who (nonpregnant, pregnant, lactating) needs it more and why?
Ellen is an 18-year-old single mother of a six-month infant; she works at a convenience store and makes minimum wage. Ellen has limited financial means and needs assistance. Navigate to Floridahealth.gov: https://www.floridahealth.gov/programs-and-services/wic/wic-program-info.htmlLinks to an external site. and share at least two (3) examples of how food assistance programs can help Ellen’s infant and one (1) example of why nutrition is important for an infant – provide a full paragraph.
Miguel is a 75-year older adult and has been diagnosed with early macular degeneration. Explain what macular degeneration is and share 2 vitamins or minerals that help reduce progression of the disease.
Sample Solution
Nutrient Recommendations: Non-Pregnant vs. Pregnant & Lactating Women
Here’s a table comparing nutrient recommendations for non-pregnant, pregnant, and lactating women:
| Nutrient | Non-Pregnant Women (19-50 years) | Pregnant Women | Lactating Women |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iron (mg) | 18 | 27 | 10 |
| Calcium (mg) | 1000 | 1000 | 1000 |
| Folic Acid (mcg) | 400 | 400 | 500 |
| Protein (g) | 46 | 71 | 71 |
Iron:
Pregnant and lactating women need significantly more iron than non-pregnant women. This is because:
- Pregnancy: Iron is essential for fetal development, including red blood cell production for both mother and baby.
- Lactation: Iron is passed on to the breastfed infant through breast milk.
Food Assistance Programs for Ellen
The Florida WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program can significantly help Ellen and her infant. Here are three examples:
- WIC provides supplemental nutritious food packages: Ellen will receive vouchers or checks for infant formula, infant cereal, fruits, vegetables, and milk. This ensures her infant gets the essential nutrients for healthy growth and development.
- WIC offers breastfeeding support: Ellen can receive breastfeeding counseling and support from lactation consultants. Breastfeeding is not only cost-effective but also provides the optimal source of nutrition for her infant.
- WIC connects families to healthcare resources: WIC staff can help Ellen access healthcare services for herself and her infant, ensuring they receive preventive care and immunizations.
Nutrition is crucial for an infant during the first year of life. It provides the building blocks for brain development, a strong immune system, and healthy physical growth. Without proper nutrition, infants are at increased risk of infections, developmental delays, and chronic health problems later in life.
Macular Degeneration and Nutrients for Miguel
Macular degeneration is an age-related eye disease that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. It can lead to blurred vision, difficulty seeing colors, and central vision loss.
Two vitamins/minerals that may help slow the progression of macular degeneration are:
- Lutein and Zeaxanthin: These antioxidants found in leafy green vegetables may protect the macula from damage caused by free radicals.
- Vitamin A: Essential for maintaining healthy vision, Vitamin A deficiency can contribute to macular degeneration. Sources include carrots, sweet potatoes, and orange-colored fruits.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.