Macro Nutrients Flashcards
What is the main function of protein
The cells main function is to build or grow new cells , maintain or repair cells or renew or replace old cells.
It also produces hormones and controls metabolism and sexual maturation
Antibodies - fights infection
What sort of nutrients are protein?
Macro nutrients
What are the food sources
Mainly foods of animal origin
What is the function of Carbohydrates
Provide the body with energy or body fuel
What groups can carbohydrates be classified as?
Monosaccharides
Disaccharides
Polysaccharides I
What are the key roles of carbohydrates
Main source of energy
Provide dietary fibre and prevent constipation
What Can an excess of carbohydrates do?
Lead to weight gain and the risk of illness such as obesity, CVD and type two diabetes
What are the major food sources of carbohydrates
Mainly foods of plant origin
What is fibre ?
It is not a nutrient on its own.
It remains undigested.
It is a protective factor against CVD and colorectal cancer
What is the key role in the body?
It adds bulk to the waste - it absorbs water in the large intestine, water then softens faeces and protects aha isn’t colorectal cancers
What are the main food sources of fibre?
Fruits and vegetables
Grains
Wholemeal bread
What types of fats are there
They are energy dense and there is: Saturated fats Trans fats Monounsaturated fats Polyunsaturated fats
What is the role in the body of fats?
Fats are a source of energy.
It regulates body temperature
Protects vital organs
What is saturated fat?
Mainly in animal products and is linked to diet related diseases and increase in low density lipoproteins
What are Trans fats?
They are similar in the structure to saturated fats and can be found naturally in small amounts in beef, veal and lamb and dairy products. It is responsible for raising LDLs and lowering HDLs which increases the risk of CVD
