Nutrition, Health and Well-being | Class 11 Home Science Notes

NUTRITION, HEALTH AND WELL-BEING DURING INFANCY (BIRTH-12 MONTHS)

Infancy, spanning from birth to 12 months, is characterized by rapid and phenomenal growth, especially in the first six months. Infants require approximately twice the calories per kilogram of body weight compared to adults engaged in heavy work. This high energy demand is met primarily through breast milk, which is uniquely composed to fulfill all nutritional needs of the infant for the first 4 to 6 months. Key nutrients essential during infancy include protein for muscular growth, calcium for healthy bones, and iron for blood volume expansion. Infants regulate their intake by consuming more or less milk as needed. The mother's nutrition significantly impacts the quality and quantity of breast milk; hence, she must consume a diet rich in protein, calcium, iron, and fluids to prevent malnutrition. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) provides recommended dietary allowances for infants, specifying energy, protein, vitamin, and mineral requirements. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended by WHO for six months, with colostrum feeding immediately after birth providing antibodies that protect against infections. Low birth weight infants (less than 2.5 kg) face challenges such as poor sucking reflex and low absorption capacity but benefit greatly from breast milk's antimicrobial properties. Complementary feeding begins at six months, introducing calorie-dense and protein-rich foods while maintaining hygiene to prevent infections. Several low-cost complementary food mixtures using locally available cereals and pulses are recommended. Immunization during infancy protects against common communicable diseases, with vaccines like BCG, OPV, and Hepatitis B administered according to the national schedule. Common health problems in infants include protein-energy malnutrition, anemia, nutritional blindness, rickets, and goitre, often exacerbated by infections and poor sanitation.

📊 Diagram: Figure showing the growth parameters of infants such as weight doubling in 6 months and tripling in 1 year, increase in length from 50-55 cm at birth to 75 cm by 1 year, and increase in head and chest circumference. Another figure illustrates types of complementary foods and their preparation from cereals and pulses.

🧪 Activity: Activity 1: Ask your parent/grandparent/aunt about the traditional complementary foods of your region. Evaluate their nutritional value and give reasons.

🔗 Connection: This section leads to understanding the nutritional needs and feeding practices for preschool children aged 1-6 years.