Intro to nutrition Flashcards
Nutrition
- the study of nutrients and how the body uses them
- they provide energy, growth, maintenance of all living cells
- basic need of every living organism
Macro-nutrient
- needed in large amounts
- protein, carbs, fat
Protein
- function is growth and repair
- amino acid is smallest unit
- eg; fish, eggs, meat and cheese
Carbohydrates
- first energy source
- provide energy
- glucose is the smallest unit
- eg; bread, pasta, potatoes
Fat
- secondary energy source
- provides protection and is an insulator
- smallest unit is a fatty acid
- eg; avocados, butter, margarine
Micro-nutrient
- needed in small amounts
- vitamins and minerals
Molecule-
Cell- tissue- organ- organelle/system
Why do people eat
- improves their quality of life
- ensures optimum health
- ensures extended mental function
- meet the increased expectations for productivity in the work place
- improve immune function to prevent or minimize the occurrence of killer diseases like cancer and coronary artery disease
- counteracts disabling diseases like osteoporosis and arthritis
- experience well-being and joy in life
- extend life expectancy
Mental dullness, depression, behavioral and personality changes can be relayed to
Imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain
Neurotransmitters
- chemical substances produced in the brain
- are necessary for the transmission of nerve pulses between brain cells
Neurotransmitters such as…
- dopamine and serotonin are produced at nerve endings from amino acids, vitamins and minerals acquired from food
What will happen if there is any deficiency in the diet
- abnormal neurotransmitter production may profoundly affect decisions made by an individual
Mental problems and discordant behavior occurs when brain chemistry is disturbed ( one reason may be)
- inadequate neurotransmitter production, which is critically dependent on the availability of certain micronutrients that catalyze the production of brain chemicals
Deficiencies will affect (4)
- behavior patterns
- personality traits
- thought processes
- decisions
Incorrect diet or nutrient deficiencies lead to
- brain disfunction
- insomnia
- muscle weakness
- fatigue
- mood swings
- inability to function physically and mentally
- inability to concentrate
- personality changes
- behavior changes
Leads to depression disease
Diet and lifestyle largely contribute to (5)
- physical and mental health
- greater productivity
- joy and happiness
- self-improvement
- a balanced self esteem
RDA
recommended dietary allowance
RDA for the macronutrients
Carbs- 50-60%
Fat- 25-30%
Protein- 15-20%
Keratinocyte (protein)
Skin, hair , nails
Kilocalorie
- measure of thermal energy that food gives off, as it is burned in the day
Metabolism
- includes all chemical processes in living cells and organisms, by which the body obtains and expends the energy provided by food
Human and male calories
Human- 1600-1800 Kcal
Male- 2000-3000 Kcal
Calorie input=
Energy output
Basal
- the life sustaining function (heart, nerves, breathing)
