Macronutrients

Question 1

Carbohydrate

Answer 1

• Provide energy (4 calories per gram).
  
  • Found in foods like bread, pasta, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Can be simple (sugars) or complex (starches).

Question 2

Protein

Answer 2

• Important molecules that make up much of the body.
  
  • Essential nutrients and building blocks of body tissue.
  • Involved in key chemical processes.
  • Help with movement and function.
  • Provide energy (4 calories per gram).

Question 3

Fat

Answer 3

• Provide long-term energy storage (9 calories per gram).
  
  • Found in oils, butter, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish.
  • Can be saturated, unsaturated, or trans fats.

Question 4

Carbs

Simple (sugars)

Answer 4

• Digested quickly
  
  • Cause quick changes in blood sugar
  • Examples: Table sugar, soft drinks, fruit juices, honey, junk food

Question 5

Carbs

Complex (starches)

Answer 5

• Digested more slowly
  
  • Provide more nutrients (vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber)
  • Examples: Whole grains, vegetables, legumes

Question 6

Unsaturated Fats (the “Good” Fats)

Answer 6

1. Monounsaturated Fats
   
   • One double bond.
   • Found in olive oil, avocados, nuts.
   • Good for heart health.
2. Polyunsaturated Fats
   
   • Multiple double bonds.
   • Found in fatty fish, seeds, nuts.
   • Good for heart health and omega-3s.

Question 7

Saturated Fats (the “Bad” Fats)

Answer 7

• Animal sources: Beef, lamb, pork, chicken, egg yolks, dairy.
  
  • Plant sources: Palm oil, coconut oil, hydrogenated margarine, vegetable shortening.
  • Hydrogenation: Process that turns some unsaturated fats into saturated fats (e.g., in margarine).

Question 8

Trans Fats

Answer 8

• Composition: Similar to saturated fats.
  
  • Health Effects: Increases LDLs (“bad cholesterol”) and lowers HDLs (“good cholesterol”).
  • Harmful to health.