Question

1.Describe some of the nutrient and immunological attributes of breast milk. Tell why solid food is not recommended for an infant during the first few months of life, and define when the child is ready to start eating solid food.

2.Describe which vitamins and minerals need special consideration for the elderly. Explain why. Name several factors that complicate the task of setting exact nutrient standards for older adults.

Answer 1

Ans) 1) Breast milk contains the perfect mix of proteins, fats, and vitamins and minerals. Lactoferrin assists growth of bacteria in the digestive tract that require iron. The Secretory IgA works to protect from illness caused by bacteria and viruses. Lysozyme promotes healthy flora and protects the infants from stuff like E coli. A big reason why infants should not eat solid food the first few months of life is because they cannot chew. Without teeth this creates a choking hazard. Also, it is recommended to introduce new foods slowly as nobody knows if the baby has any food allergies. The new baby needs to be treated delicately to not have negative reactions.

2) The elderly can often need additional B12 due to susceptibility to many deficiencies such as anemia, neurological degeneration and atrophic gastritis. Vitamin D is another vitamin that a deficiency can become problematic aiding osteoporosis. Calcium intake also plays a big role for the same reason. Elderly should also watch their iron intake. Insufficiencies in iron intake can make the immune system vulnerable to disease. Zinc intake is important as well, having been linked to avoiding degenerating diseases commonly associated with aging.