Nutritional Biochemistry Flashcards
What is nutrition
Is the study of nutrients in food,how the body uses them and the relationship between diet,health and disease
Function of good nutrition
1)it provides nourishment
2)it is a critical part of health and development
3)lower risk of diseases
4)longetivity
Components of dite
Macro and micronutrients
What are micronutrients
are essential dietary elements required by organisms in varying quantities throughout life to orchestrate a range of physiological functions to maintain health.
Micronutrients consists of
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins
Are organic compounds made by plants and animals which can be broken down by heat acid and air
Functions of vitamins
Immune function
Energy production
Blood clotting
Function of minerals
Formation of red blood cells
Helps in the proper functioning of the brain
Helps in transporting oxygen to all parts of the body
Helps in maintening water balance
Basal metabolic rate
Is the energy expended in a resting post absorptive state.It represents energy required to maintain normal body function eg respiration,blood flow,ion transport
Vitamin A
Proper vision and organ function
Vitamin D
Promotes proper immune function and assists in calcium absorption and bone growth
Vitamin E
Helps in immune function and acts as an antioxidant which protect cells from damage
Vitamin K
Blood clotting and proper bone
Calcium
Necessary for proper structure and function of bones and teeth. Assists in muscle function and blood vessel contraction.
Phosphorus
Forms a part of bone and cell membrane structure
Magnesium
Assists with over 300 enzyme reactions, including regulation of blood pressure.
Sodium
Electrolyte that aids fluid balance and maintenance of blood pressure.
Chloride
Often found in combination with sodium. Helps maintain fluid balance and used to make digestive juices.
Potassium
Electrolyte that maintains fluid status in cells and helps with nerve transmission and muscle function.
Sugar
are simple carbohydrates. The body quickly breaks down and absorbs sugars and processed starch. They can provide rapid energy, but they do not leave a person feeling full. They can also cause a spike in blood sugar levels. Frequent sugar spikes increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and its complications.
Fibre
is another type of carbohydrate. The body breaks down some types of fiber and uses them for energy; others are metabolized by gut bacteria, while other types pass through the body. Fiber gives a sense of satiety. Fiber may also reduce the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and colorectal cancer.
Starch
are complex carbohydrates. It takes the body some time to break down and absorb complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are a more healthful choice than sugars and refined carbohydrates.
Vitamin B1
Thiamine
Vitamin B2
Riboflavin
Vitamin B3
Niacin
Vitamin B5
Pantothenic acid
Vitamin B6
Pyridoxine
Vitamin B 7
Biotin
Vitamin B9
Folate
Vitamin B 12
Cobalamin