Bone health is one of the most widely discussed topics in pediatric nutrition. Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake is essential, and other factors also play a significant role. Bone Health in Children explores the recent decades of research and public commentary on the subject, debunks popular myths, and clarifies the often confusing and contradictory scientific literature. Presenting practical and theoretical education and advice, the book provides rational and accessible information geared to a wide audience of individuals interested in this critical element of pediatric health.
Highlights include:
- The Institute of Medicine process by which Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) are developed
- Iron, calcium, and vitamin D requirements for infants, children, and pregnant and lactating women
- Controversy over high-dose vitamin D supplementation and pregnancy
- Detailed explanation of the scientific research process related to human nutrition
- The nonbone health aspects of vitamin D and why literature claims about this topic can be misleading
- Frequently Asked Questions regarding nutrition with answers in short format
Providing a solid understanding as to how dietary guidelines are developed and evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of their underlying data, this volume answers practical questions crucial for choosing diets for children while also delving into the more theoretical aspects of conducting and interpreting medical research.
Why does bone health in children matter, and what are the key players in bone health? How do we identify and quantify dietary requirements? Infants. Toddlers (children younger than 4 years of age). Early school-age children (ages 4 to 8). Adolescents.
Pregnancy and lactation. Children with chronic illnesses. Myths and realities of calcium intake in children: Can’t we just fortify all our foods? Myths and realities of vitamin D intake in children. Beyond bone health: Vitamin D. Putting it all together: Bone health as part of good nutrition for infants and children. Unanswered questions: How do we conduct and publicize good nutritional research? Programming and genetics. Frequently asked questions. Index.
Biography
Steven A. Abrams, M.D., is a Professor of Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine. He is a board certified pediatrician and a neonatologist. He practices clinical neonatology in Houston, Texas.
Keli M. Hawthorne, M.S., R.D., L.D., is a registered dietitian working in nutrition research at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, and she is a practicing clinical dietitian at Texas Children’s Hospital.
