CNS Nutrition Across the Lifespan Flashcards

Which dietary pattern score is used in pediatric nutrition research to assess overall diet quality based on alignment with USDA Dietary Guidelines?

Answer: Healthy Eating Index (HEI)

The HEI, developed by USDA and DHHS, scores dietary quality 0–100 based on 13 components reflecting adherence to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and is widely used in pediatric research.

Which critical window for adipogenesis during infancy is associated with increased obesity risk if excessive weight gain occurs, according to the 'early programming' hypothesis?

Answer: First 1,000 days (conception to age 2)

The first 1,000 days from conception through age 2 represent a critical window when nutritional exposures program adipocyte number, metabolic set points, and long-term obesity risk.

What is the leading dietary deficiency affecting cognitive development and school performance in school-age children globally, also associated with pagophagia (ice craving)?

Answer: Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency is the most prevalent nutrient deficiency worldwide; in children it impairs myelination and neurotransmitter synthesis, reducing attention, memory, and academic performance.

In menopausal women, which nutrient's recommended daily intake increases from 1,000 mg to 1,200 mg/day to offset accelerated bone resorption due to estrogen decline?

Answer: Calcium

Estrogen deficiency at menopause accelerates bone resorption; increasing calcium intake to 1,200 mg/day along with adequate vitamin D helps offset losses and reduce osteoporosis risk.

Which growth chart system is recommended by the WHO for assessing growth in children under age 2 in the United States and represents optimal growth under ideal nutritional conditions?

Answer: WHO Child Growth Standards

The WHO standards, based on a multinational sample of breastfed children raised under optimal conditions, represent 'how children should grow' and are recommended for children under 2 in the US.

Iodine requirements increase during pregnancy primarily to support which fetal developmental need?

Answer: Fetal thyroid hormone synthesis for brain development

The fetal thyroid begins functioning around 18–20 weeks; adequate maternal iodine is critical throughout pregnancy for thyroid hormone production needed for fetal neurodevelopment.