Supplementary guidelines for specific populations

chinacdc.cn | Updated: 2022-03-01

(a)Women who are trying to get pregnant

Adjust pre-pregnancy weight to a normal body weight.

Use iodized table salt and frequently consume iron-rich foods, also take a folic acid supplement three months prior to pregnancy.

Refrain from smoking and drinking and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

(b)Pregnant women

Take a folic acid supplement, regularly consume iron-rich foods and choose iodized table salt.

Those with severe morning sickness should eat small frequent meals throughout the day to ensure adequate intake of carbohydrates.

Appropriately increase the intake of milk, fish, poultry and lean meats during the second and third trimesters.

Preform physical activities in moderation and maintain an appropriate weight gain throughout pregnancy.

Refrain from smoking and drinking, maintain a good mood during pregnancy and be prepared to breastfeed.

(c)Lactating women

Increase animal-based foods and seafood, which are rich in high quality proteins and Vitamin A; also choose iodized table salt.

Eat a variety of foods, but not excessively; pay attention to nutrition during the lactating period.

Be in a good mood and have sufficient sleep to promote breast milk secretion.

Keep breastfeeding and perform physical activities in moderation to help control body weight.

Refrain from smoking and drinking or consuming concentrated tea or coffee.

(d)Pre-schoolers

Establish good eating habits; eat only at fixed mealtimes, encourage self-feeding and discourage picky eating.

Drink milk daily and have adequate amounts of water, choose healthy snacks.

Foods should be properly prepared to allow easy digestion, and in seasonings and frying.

Encourage children to help prepare and cook foods to promote their interest in foods.

Encourages outdoor activities to aid healthy growth.

(e)Children and adolescents

Understand different foods, learn how to prepare meals, improve nutritional knowledge.

Have three main meals at fixed meal times, establish healthy eating habits.

Choose healthy snacks, drink adequate amounts of water and avoid beverages with added sugars.

Encourage a balanced diet; avoid picky eating and overeating; maintain a healthy weight gain.

Encourage outdoor activities of at least 60 minutes daily.

(f)The elderly

Eat small but frequent meal portions daily and consume softer foods to prevent nutritional deficiency.

Stay hydrated by drinking adequate amounts of water, engage in outdoor activities.

Delay sarcopenia by maintaining a suitable body weight.

Ensure adequate food intake, having meals with others are encouraged.