Special Nutritional Needs for Different Age Groups (SS2 Food & Nutrition)
Lesson Note: Special Nutritional Needs for Different Age Groups
Food and Nutrition – SS2 – Second Term – Week 4
Lesson Details
- Subject: Food and Nutrition
- Class: Senior Secondary School 2 (SS2)
- Term: Second Term
- Week: 4
- Age: 14 – 17 years
- Topic: Special Nutritional Needs for Different Age Groups
- Sub-topic: Nutritional Needs of Infants, Children, Adolescents, Adults, and the Aged
- Duration: 40 minutes
Behavioral Objectives
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
- Identify the special nutritional needs of infants, children, adolescents, adults, and the aged.
- Explain the importance of balanced nutrition at different stages of life.
- Describe the consequences of poor nutrition at each stage.
- Suggest suitable food choices for each age group.
Keywords
- Nutrition: The process of obtaining food necessary for health and growth.
- Balanced Diet: A meal containing all necessary nutrients in the right proportions.
- Metabolism: The chemical process by which the body converts food into energy.
- Malnutrition: A condition resulting from an unbalanced diet.
- Micronutrients: Essential vitamins and minerals needed in small amounts.
Set Induction
The teacher asks the students:
- “Why do babies need breast milk?”
- “Why do teenagers eat a lot?”
- “Why do old people eat less than young people?”
Students’ responses will guide the introduction to the lesson on different nutritional needs across life stages.
Entry Behavior
Students already have basic knowledge of food nutrients and their functions in the body from previous lessons.
Learning Resources and Materials
- Food models (pictures of baby food, children’s meals, adolescent meals, etc.)
- Charts showing dietary requirements for different age groups
- Videos or slides on the importance of proper nutrition
Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge
Students have learned about the six classes of food and their functions. This lesson connects that knowledge to how dietary needs change with age.
Embedded Core Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Communication
- Personal Development
- Problem-Solving
Instructional Materials
- Lagos State Scheme of Work for Food and Nutrition
- Recommended textbooks
- WHO nutritional guidelines for different age groups
Lesson Content
1. Nutritional Needs of Infants (0 – 12 months)
Infants require adequate nutrition for rapid growth and brain development. Their diet should include:
- Breast Milk: Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months provides all essential nutrients.
- Formula Feeding: For babies who cannot be breastfed, iron-fortified formula is recommended.
- Iron and Calcium: Needed for bone growth and brain development.
- Vitamin D: Prevents rickets and strengthens bones.
- Introduction of Solid Foods: From 6 months, soft mashed foods like fruits, vegetables, and cereals can be introduced gradually.
Consequences of Poor Nutrition in Infants
- Stunted growth
- Weak immune system
- Cognitive delays
2. Nutritional Needs of Children (1 – 12 years)
Children need energy and essential nutrients to support growth and active lifestyles. Their diet should include:
- Proteins: For body-building (e.g., fish, eggs, beans).
- Carbohydrates: Provide energy (e.g., rice, yam, bread).
- Calcium & Vitamin D: Strengthen bones and teeth (e.g., milk, cheese, green vegetables).
- Fruits & Vegetables: Provide vitamins and minerals to boost immunity.
- Adequate Hydration: Water is necessary for digestion and metabolism.
Consequences of Poor Nutrition in Children
- Malnutrition (e.g., Kwashiorkor, Marasmus)
- Poor concentration and low academic performance
- Weak immune system
3. Nutritional Needs of Adolescents (13 – 19 years)
Adolescence is a period of rapid growth and hormonal changes. A balanced diet is necessary for:
- High Energy Intake: Due to increased physical activity (e.g., whole grains, healthy fats).
- Protein: For muscle growth and development (e.g., lean meat, beans, soy).
- Iron & Folate: Especially for girls to prevent anemia (e.g., leafy vegetables, liver).
- Calcium & Vitamin D: Needed for strong bones to prevent osteoporosis later in life.
- Zinc: Supports immune function and wound healing.
Consequences of Poor Nutrition in Adolescents
- Poor growth and delayed puberty
- Increased risk of obesity or eating disorders
- Fatigue and low academic performance
4. Nutritional Needs of Adults (20 – 59 years)
Adults need a well-balanced diet to maintain energy levels and overall health. Their diet should include:
- Balanced Macronutrients: Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats in the right proportions.
- Fiber: Aids digestion and prevents constipation (e.g., whole grains, vegetables).
- Low-Fat Diet: Reduces the risk of heart diseases (e.g., lean meat, fish, nuts).
- Iron & B Vitamins: Prevent anemia and boost energy levels.
- Water: Essential for metabolism and preventing dehydration.
Consequences of Poor Nutrition in Adults
- Increased risk of lifestyle diseases (e.g., diabetes, hypertension).
- Obesity and metabolic disorders.
- Poor work productivity and fatigue.
5. Nutritional Needs of the Aged (60 years and above)
The elderly require special nutrition due to reduced metabolism and health challenges. Their diet should include:
- Low-Calorie Foods: Since energy requirements decrease with age.
- High Fiber: Prevents constipation and improves digestion (e.g., fruits, vegetables).
- Calcium & Vitamin D: To maintain bone strength and prevent osteoporosis.
- Adequate Protein: To prevent muscle loss (e.g., eggs, fish, dairy).
- Plenty of Water: Prevents dehydration and kidney problems.
Consequences of Poor Nutrition in the Aged
- Osteoporosis and fractures
- Weak immune system and frequent illness
- Memory loss and cognitive decline
Class Activity Discussion
- Why is exclusive breastfeeding recommended for the first six months?
- What are the main nutrients needed by school-age children?
- Why do adolescents need more iron in their diet?
- List three consequences of poor nutrition in adults.
- Why should the elderly eat foods rich in fiber?
Evaluation Questions
- Which of these is the best source of calcium for an elderly person?
a) Candy
b) Milk
c) Soft drinks
d) Fried foods - Adolescents require more of which mineral to prevent anemia?
a) Zinc
b) Iron
c) Sodium
d) Potassium - Which of these is NOT a suitable food for infants?
a) Breast milk
b) Iron-fortified formula
c) Spicy foods
d) Mashed banana - What is a major consequence of poor nutrition in children?
a) Diabetes
b) Stunted growth
c) Heart disease
d) Arthritis - Why do aged people need less energy-rich food?
a) They sleep more
b) They exercise more
c) Their metabolism slows down
d) They need more calories
Conclusion
The teacher summarizes the importance of proper nutrition at each life stage and marks students’ work, correcting misconceptions where necessary.
