Macronutrients Flashcards
What are macro nutrients?
the main nutrients needed by the body in relatively large amounts
Give examples of macro nutrients
Proteins, Fats and Carbohydrate
What are proteins?
They are vital to life and made up of building blocks called amino acids
What are the main functions of proteins?
growth and repair of body cells AND
maintenance of body cells
What are proteins secondary function?
to provide energy
What does HBV stand for
High Biological Value proteins
Explain HBV proteins further
They are proteins which contain all of the essential amino acids
List examples of HBV proteins
fish, eggs, milk, cheese, meat, soya beans (VEGETARIAN ALTERNATIVE)
What does LBV stand for
Low Biological Value proteins
Explain LBV proteins further
They are proteins which lack one or more of the essential amino acids
List examples of LBV proteins
cereals (e.g. wheats, rice and oats), pulses (e.g. peas, beans and lentils), some nuts, gelatine (ANIMAL SOURCE)
Why is it important to consume a variety of LBV proteins?
to ensure you’re getting all your essential amino acids in your diet
What happens if there is too little protein being consumed?
stunted growth (in children), weakened skin and hair, weakened immune system, bone and muscle loss, longer healing time
What happens if too much protein is being consumed?
can be converted into fat in the body and can lead to obesity if not used up as a secondary source of energy in the body
What are the two main types of carbohydrates?
sugars and starch
