Nutrition Flashcards
Macro and micronutrients
LO1- Define nutrition.
Intake of food considered in relation of body’s dietary needs (good nutrition is adequate well combined with regular physical activity).
LO1- Define nutrients.
Compounds of food essential to life and health (provides with energy, repair and growth and regulation of chemical processes).
LO1- Define macronutrients.
Large, complex, needed in larger quantities.
LO1- Define micronutrients (g).
Small, needed in smaller quantities (mg).
LO2- What are the macronutrients.
Carbohydrates, proteins, fats.
What are the two groups of carbohydrates?
Simple/ free sugars and complex/ starchy carbs.
What is the function of carbs?
Primary energy source.
What happens to unused glucose in the body?
Converted to glycogen and stored in liver and muscles. When glycogen stores full, excess glucose converted to fat for storage.
What are proteins made up of?
Amino acids.
Can essential or non essential amino acids be produced in our body?
Non- essential (essential needs to be obtained in diet).
What are the functions of proteins?
-structural components of cells and tissues
-enzymes (lactase)
-hormones (insulin)
-immunity (antibodies)
-storage
-carriers (Hb)
What are some sources of protein?
Beans, fish, lentils, eggs, meat.
What are the 3 classifications of fatty acids?
Saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated.
What are functions of fats in the body?
-richest energy source
-carry fat soluble vitamins (absorption and storage)
-cell signalling
-control biochemical reactions in cells.
What are the two groups of vitamins?
-fat soluble (A,D,E,K)
-water soluble (B-complex, C).
Where are fat soluble vitamins absorbed?
In intestinal tract with help of fats.
Where are fat soluble vitamins stored?
Fatty tissues and liver.
Are fat soluble vitamins excreted?
No- very high intakes can cause toxicity.
What is vitamin A found in?
Red and orange fruits, dark green veg.
What is vitamin A needed for?
Maintenance of epithelial tissues, mucus membranes, bone development, immune function.
What happens with vitamin A deficiency?
Night blindness.
What is vitamin D found in?
Dairy products, liver and fish oils.
What is vitamin D needed for?
Increased Ca2+ absorption in gut, promotes growth and mineralisation of bone.
What happens with vitamin D deficiency?
Weak bones, osteoporosis.