Although the guidelines on range and quantity of foods are sufficient for the average adult, individuals vary in their requirements. In particular, certain groups of people have special dietary needs, either groups of people have special dietary needs, either because they are in the process of building or re-building their body tissues, or because their activity and/or metabolic rates product different energy needs.

Babies In their first few months, babies need only milk, ideally human breast milk, though the modern formulas made for bottle-feeding are nutritionally adequate. Solid foods should not be introduced before 3 months of age: 4 months is the usual recommended age for starting solids, though some babies are satisfied by milk alone for as long as 6 months. Foods should be introduced gradually, starting with cereals and pureed fruit and vegetables, so that the baby's immature digestive system is not overloaded. Salt or sugar should not be added to foods, and ready-prepared foods containing these should be avoided. They are unnecessary, can damage the kidneys and can also cause the baby to acquire a taste for such seasonings which will be hard to shake off in later life. In the past, fat babies were considered healthy, but it is now agreed that it is particularly important not to become overweight in the early years of life.

Children By the time a child is 1 year old he or she will probably be on a good mixed diet similar to that of an adult. Milk, or other dairy products such as cheese and yoghurt, should remain an important part of the child's diet as much calcium is needed for the formation of strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D is also important for the calcification of the bones and a supplement is sometimes recommended if the child is exposed to little sunshine. The supplement is given all year round up to 2 years of age and then in the winter only to the age of 5.

Protein is essential for building body tissues. If the child does not like meat, which is often the case, care should be taken to see that he or she is getting protein combinations which will provide complementary amino acids, such as baked beans on toast or baked potatoes with cheese.

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