Unit 7 Nutrition Flashcards
(162 cards)
What do foods provide that is essential to bodily functions?
Nutrients
Nutrients include vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
What characteristics define a well-planned diet?
Rich and adequate in a variety of nutrients, moderate in calories, enjoyable to consume
A well-planned diet supports overall health and wellness.
Who is the author of the phrase ‘Eat (whole) food, not too much, mostly plants’?
Michael Pollan
Michael Pollan is an author, journalist, and Harvard professor known for his work on food and nutrition.
List three key principles for eating properly.
- Variety
- Moderation
- Emphasize vegetables/fruits, whole grains, lean proteins
These principles help create a balanced and nutritious diet.
What should be minimized in a healthy diet?
- Empty calories
- Added sugars
- Animal fats
- Salt (sodium)
Minimizing these components can promote better health.
True or False: Healthy eating maximizes health and minimizes disease risk.
True
A healthy diet is linked to lower risk of chronic diseases.
What is nutrition?
The act or process of nourishing or being nourished
Nutrition is essential for growth, maintenance, and overall health.
What is the role of digestion?
Breaks food down into nutrients that are small enough to be absorbed into the blood
Digestion is a crucial process for nutrient availability.
What determines the nutrient composition of your diet?
The food or drinks you regularly consume
Dietary choices directly impact overall health and nutrient intake.
What happens to nutrients once they are absorbed?
They are metabolized
Metabolism is vital for energy production and bodily functions.
What occurs when calories are consumed in excess of the body’s needs?
Converted to fat and stored
Excess caloric intake can lead to weight gain.
Why should your diet be chosen carefully?
To ensure proper nutrition and health
A balanced diet supports overall well-being and prevents deficiencies.
What are the six classes of essential nutrients?
Proteins, Carbohydrates, Fats, Vitamins, Minerals, Water
These nutrients are vital for various bodily functions and must be obtained through diet.
What is the caloric value of proteins per gram?
4 calories/gram
Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues.
What is the primary function of proteins?
Form important parts of muscles, bone, blood, enzymes, some hormones, and cell membranes; repair tissue; regulate water and acid-base balance; help in growth; supply energy
Proteins play a crucial role in maintaining the structure and function of the body.
List major sources of proteins.
- Meat
- Fish
- Poultry
- Eggs
- Milk products
- Legumes
- Nuts
These foods are rich in protein and essential for health.
What is the caloric value of carbohydrates per gram?
4 calories/gram
Carbohydrates are a primary energy source for the body.
What is the primary function of carbohydrates?
Supply energy to cells in brain, nervous system, and blood; supply energy to muscles during exercise
They are the body’s preferred energy source.
What is the caloric value of fats per gram?
9 calories/gram
Fats provide more than double the energy of proteins and carbohydrates.
What are the primary functions of fats?
Supply energy; insulate, support, and cushion organs; provide medium for absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
Fats are essential for overall health and nutrient absorption.
What is the role of vitamins in the body?
Promote specific chemical reactions within cells
Vitamins are crucial for metabolic processes.
What is the role of minerals in the body?
Help regulate body functions; aid in growth and maintenance of body tissues; act as catalysts for release of energy
Minerals are vital for many physiological processes.
What is the primary function of water in the body?
Provides medium for chemical reactions; transports chemicals; regulates temperature; removes waste products
Water makes up approximately 60 percent of body weight.
What are the major sources of water?
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Liquids
These sources help maintain hydration.