Food, Nutrition & Health Flashcards
(108 cards)
What are proteins made up of?
Long chains of amino acids held together by chemical bonds
What are the functions of proteins in the body?
- Cell growth and cell division
- Repair and maintenance of tissues
- Energy reserve
- Enzymes, antibodies, and hormones
Name three protein-rich foods.
- Meat
- Fish/seafood
- Dairy products
What can result from protein deficiency?
- Reduced growth
- Brittle hair and nails
- Weakened immune system
- Poor digestion
- Kwashiorkor
What are the consequences of excess protein intake?
- Digestive issues and nausea
- Dehydration
- Headaches
- Damage to kidneys and liver
- Cardiovascular disease
What is the average recommended daily protein intake for adult males?
Around 55 g per day
What are essential amino acids?
Amino acids that can only be gained by consuming foods containing them
What are high biological value (HBV) proteins?
Proteins that contain all essential amino acids, found in foods like meat, fish, eggs, soya products, and quinoa
What is protein complementation?
Combining different LBV protein foods to gain all essential amino acids
What are some sources of plant-based protein alternatives?
- Soya products
- Tofu
- Textured vegetable protein (TVP)
- Mycoprotein (e.g., Quorn)
What are the functions of fats in the body?
- Concentrated energy store
- Production of cell membranes
- Insulating the body
- Protecting internal organs
- Absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
Name two sources of animal fats.
- Meat
- Dairy products
What can result from fat deficiency?
- Muscle loss
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Increased heat loss
What is the dietary reference value for fats?
Fats should not supply more than 35% of energy from food
What are the two types of fatty acids?
- Saturated
- Unsaturated
What are the characteristics of saturated fats?
Solid at room temperature, associated with increased blood cholesterol
What are carbohydrates primarily used for in the body?
As an energy source
What type of carbohydrate is glucose?
A simple sugar (monosaccharide)
What are polysaccharides?
Long chains of glucose joined together, such as starches
What can a carbohydrate deficiency lead to?
- Low blood sugar symptoms
- Muscle wastage
- Increased risk of bowel issues
What is the dietary reference value for dietary fibre?
30 g per day for adults
What are fat-soluble vitamins?
Vitamins that dissolve in fat and are stored in the body’s fatty tissue
Name one function of Vitamin A.
Important for vision, immune function, and skin health
What can result from Vitamin D deficiency?
Rickets