1What is iron-deficiency anemia?
A reduction below the normal number or volume of red blood cells caused by inadequate iron.
2Why is iron-deficiency anemia common in toddlers and preschoolers?
Rapid growth increases iron needs while diets may be low in iron.
3How is iron-deficiency anemia diagnosed?
By measuring hemoglobin and/or hematocrit concentrations.
4What developmental problems can iron-deficiency anemia cause?
Delays in cognitive development and behavioral disturbances.
5How can iron-deficiency anemia be prevented?
Limit milk intake, encourage iron-rich foods, and screen at-risk children.
6Why should milk intake be limited in young children?
Milk is low in iron and may replace iron-rich foods.
7What is the recommended maximum milk intake for toddlers?
24 ounces per day.
8When should infants at risk for iron deficiency be screened?
At 9-12 months, again 6 months later, and annually from ages 2-5.
9How is iron-deficiency anemia treated?
Iron supplements, nutrition counseling, and repeat screening.
10What are dental caries?
Tooth decay caused by bacteria and frequent exposure to sugars.
11How common are dental caries in preschool children?
About 1 in 3 children ages 3-5.
12What are common causes of dental caries?
Bedtime bottles with juice or milk, Streptococcus mutans, and sticky carbohydrate foods.
13How much juice does the AAP recommend for children ages 1-6?
4-6 ounces per day.
14How much juice does the AAP recommend for children ages 7-18?
8-12 ounces per day.
15How can dental caries be prevented?
Good oral hygiene, fluoride, limiting sugary drinks, and avoiding bedtime bottles.
16What is constipation?
Hard, dry stools associated with painful bowel movements.
17What commonly causes constipation in toddlers?
Stool holding and inadequate fiber or fluid intake.
18How can constipation be prevented?
Adequate fiber, fluids, and regular bowel habits.
19Why are elevated blood lead levels concerning?
They impair cognitive, motor, behavioral, and physical development.
20What percentage of children ages 1-5 have elevated blood lead levels?
About 1.6%.
21How can lead exposure affect growth?
High blood lead levels may decrease growth.
22What are common risk factors for elevated blood lead levels?
Young age, poor nutrition, and low socioeconomic status.
23Which nutrition problem shares similar risk factors with lead poisoning?
Iron-deficiency anemia.
24What is food security?
Access at all times to enough safe and nutritious food.
25Why is food insecurity especially concerning in children?
It can impair growth and development.
26Why are toddlers and preschoolers at greater risk for foodborne illness?
They can become ill from smaller amounts of harmful organisms.
27What does Fight BAC! stand for?
Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.
28What does "Clean" mean in Fight BAC!?
Wash hands and surfaces often.
29What does "Separate" mean in Fight BAC!?
Prevent cross-contamination.
30What does "Cook" mean in Fight BAC!?
Cook foods to safe internal temperatures.
31What does "Chill" mean in Fight BAC!?
Refrigerate foods promptly.
32Which dairy products should young children avoid?
Raw or unpasteurized milk and products made from it.
33Why should unpasteurized milk be avoided?
It may contain harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter.
34Which foods should children avoid because of food safety concerns?
Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, fish, eggs, unpasteurized juice, and raw sprouts.
35Why is prevention preferred over treatment for childhood obesity?
Obesity is difficult to treat once established.
36What screening tool is recommended to assess overweight and obesity?
BMI-for-age percentile.
37How can parents help prevent childhood obesity?
Limit sugary drinks, encourage fruits and vegetables, control portions, reduce screen time, and encourage breakfast.
38Why should sugar-sweetened beverages be limited?
They increase excess calorie intake without providing many nutrients.
39Why should screen time be limited?
It encourages physical activity and reduces sedentary behavior.
40What are the four stages of pediatric obesity treatment?
Stage 1 Prevention Plus, Stage 2 Structured Weight Management, Stage 3 Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Intervention, and Stage 4 Tertiary Care Intervention.
41Do most healthy toddlers require vitamin supplements?
No. A varied diet usually provides adequate nutrients.
42Which children may benefit from vitamin or mineral supplements?
Children with poor diets, poor appetites, restrictive diets, or from deprived families.
43If vitamin supplements are used, what should the dose not exceed?
The Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) for the child's age.
44Why should parents be cautious with herbal supplements?
Their safety and effectiveness in children are not well established.
45What advice should healthcare providers give regarding herbal supplements?
Discuss potential risks and monitor children closely if used.
46How can cardiovascular disease risk be reduced beginning in childhood?
Limit saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol while promoting healthy eating habits.
47What is the Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR) for fat in children ages 1-3?
25-35% of total calories.
48What is the AMDR for fat in children ages 4-18?
25-35% of total calories.
49Why should cultural food practices be considered during nutrition counseling?
Recommendations are more successful when they build on positive cultural traditions.
50Can vegetarian diets support healthy growth in children?
Yes, when carefully planned.
51How many meals are recommended each day for vegetarian children?
Three meals and two to three snacks.
52Why should bulky high-fiber foods be limited in vegan children?
They may reduce calorie intake before energy needs are met.
53Which nutrients require special attention in vegetarian children?
Calcium, iron, zinc, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.
54Approximately how many preschool-aged children attend child care?
About 23 million.
55How often should food be offered in child care settings?
At intervals of no less than 2 hours and no more than 3 hours.
56Why is physical activity important for toddlers and preschoolers?
It promotes healthy growth, strengthens muscles, and helps maintain energy balance.
57How much physical activity is recommended daily for young children?
At least 60 minutes of vigorous physical activity each day.
58What are examples of recommended physical activities for young children?
Family walks, dancing, hide-and-seek, Simon Says, and active outdoor play.