minerals Flashcards
Nutrition
is the study of food and how the body makes use of it.
Diet therapies
are specially designed and prescribed for medical and/or general nutritional
reasons. It promotes a balanced selection of foods vital for good health. By combining foods
appropriate for each individual and drinking enough water, one can help maintain the best
possible health.
Individualized diet therapy
can provide the patient important insight into food-related illnesses
and education regarding how various nutrients(protein, carbohydrate, fat, alcohol) affect illness, diseases, or obesity. Dietary therapy can be tailored to meet the treatment needs of patients on
diagnosis ofspecific illnesses, can help reduce complications and/orside effects, and can improve
general well-being
Nutrients
are chemical substances found in food, components that are indispensable to the
body’s functioning.
Food
when taken and digested nourishes the body
Digestion
is defined as the process of breaking down food and substances like carbohydrates,
proteins, fats, and vitamins that aid the body in its different functions.
Classification of Nutrients
- Function –
- Chemical properties
- Essentiality –
- Concentration
- Function – those thatform tissuesin the body are body-building nutrients while those thatfurnish
heat and energy are fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
Chemical properties – Nutrients are classified are either organic or inorganic
Essentiality – Nutrients are classified based on their significant contribution to the body’s physiological functioning.
– Nutrients are either in
a. large amounts (high nutrient density)
b. in little amounts (low nutrient density)
Vitamin D:
Helps the body absorb calcium for strong bones and teeth.
Vitamin A:
Supports good vision, healthy skin, and immune function.
Vitamin E
Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
Vitamin K
Essential for blood clotting and bone health.
Vitamin C:
Boosts the immune system and aids in healing wounds
Vitamin B1
(Thiamine): Helps convert food into energy and supports nerve and muscle function.
Vitamin B2
(Riboflavin): Keeps skin, eyes, and nerve function healthy, and helps process energy.
Vitamin B3
(Niacin)Supports digestion, energy production, and keeps the skin and nervous system healthy.
Vitamin B5
(Pantothenic Acid): Helps the body make and break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins for energy.
Vitamin B6
(Pyridoxine): Helps with brain development and the production of mood-regulating hormones.
Vitamin B7
(Biotin): Keeps hair, skin, and nails healthy and aids in energy metabolism.
Vitamin B9
(Folate/Folic Acid): Essential for making DNA and red blood cells, especially important during pregnancy.
Vitamin B12
(Cobalamin): Supports nerve function and helps make red blood cells and DNA.
II. MINERALS
Minerals pertain to the elements in their simple inorganic form. I
Calcium:
Builds strong bones and teeth, and helps muscles and nerves function properly.
Magnesium
Supports muscle relaxation, energy production, and healthy bones.
Phosphorus
Helps form bones and teeth and is essential for energy storage and transfer.
Potassium:
Maintains fluid balance, supports proper nerve signals, and helps muscles, including the heart, function well.
Sodium:
Regulates fluid levels, helps muscles contract, and supports nerve signals.
Chloride:
Works with sodium to maintain fluid balance and aids in digestion by forming stomach acid.
Sulfur:
Helps build and repair tissues and is part of proteins like those in hair, skin, and nails.
Iron
Produces hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, preventing anemia.
Zinc
Supports wound healing, immune function, and taste and smell.
Iodine
Helps the thyroid produce hormones that regulate growth and metabolism.
Copper
Aids in forming red blood cells, supporting immune health, and absorbing iron.
Fluoride
Strengthens teeth and helps prevent cavities.
Selenium:
Acts as an antioxidant and supports the immune system.
Manganese
Helps the body process cholesterol, carbohydrates, and proteins.
Chromium
Improves insulin function and helps regulate blood sugar.
