Feeding the normal infant, child and adolescent

A healthy diet in infancy and childhood must not only support normal growth and development, but is also the foundation of adult health. Optimum nutrition and good feeding of infants and children are among the most important determinants of their health, growth and development. A healthy diet prevents malnutrition and early growth retardation, which are common in some parts of the world. Poorly fed children show a greater incidence and severity of enteric and other infections, and there is evidence that infant under-nutrition has long-term adverse health consequences, and plays a part in the development of some chronic non-communicable diseases in adults. Furthermore, micronutrient deficiencies (particularly of iron and iodine) are associated with delayed motor development and impaired cognitive function. In contrast, overfed children can grow up to be obese and at risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Based on up-to-date evidence and recommendations, this article outlines current thinking about the optimum nutrition, feeding and diet of infants, toddlers, children and adolescents.