Energy Flashcards
The role of energy in the body
Energy is essential for the functioning of internal organs, for example the heart and kidneys
Energy is required by the body for all physical activities, such as walking and standing
Energy is involved in the production of heat, which helps to maintain body temperature
Energy plays a role in all cell and nerve activity (metabolism)
Energy is necessary for growth, therefore it’s important during pregnancy for the development of the foetus and for children and adolescents
Energy is obtained from the gods in the diet. A balanced diet provides sufficient energy and reduced the risk of disease
Basal Metabolic Rate
Nasal metabolic rate refers to the minimum energy required to keep internal organs functioning and maintain temperature (37°C)
It is calculated when the body is at complete rest, warm and has been fasting for at least 12 hours
Factors determining energy requirements
Age - young children and teenagers require a lot of energy for rapid growth and increase in body size. Elderly peoples energy requirements fall with less activity and a decreased BMR
Body weight - larger body more energy
Gender - men require more because of a higher proportion of muscle to fat
Occupation - sedentary vs active
Activity - more active more energy + eg
Pregnancy/ lactation - to allow growth of the baby
Climate - cooler climate more energy
Health status - illness energy requirements decrease due to lack of exercise. Injuries require extra energy for repair
Balancing energy intake and output
Energy intake should match energy output. This is known as energy balance to maintain a healthy weight
If our intake of kilocalories from food exceeds our energy output we gain weight
If energy output exceeds input we lose weight
Balancing energy input with output maintains a constant body weight
