Nutrition/ Core Nutritional Science Assignment/no plagiarism/deadline close PLS CHECK ALL THE ATTACHMENTS – ANSWER THEM IN ORDER PLS (i.e. 7 before 8 and post) 4 Assignments in one DNT 200 — NUTRITION FOR HEALTH SCIENCES All definitions should be nutrition oriented… Please do not leave any question unanswered..detailed answers pls Thanks TEXTBOOK: , 15th edition. The publisher is Cengage
Assignment Answers:
1. Define nutrition and explain its importance for human health.
Nutrition is the science that studies the nutrients in food and their relationship to the maintenance, growth, reproduction, and health of humans. It encompasses the processes by which the body uses food substances for energy, growth, and maintenance of body structures. Nutrition is vital for human health as it influences various physiological processes, including metabolism, digestion, and immune function. Adequate nutrition is essential for growth and development, maintaining a healthy weight, and preventing chronic diseases.
2. What are essential nutrients? Provide examples of essential nutrients and their functions in the body.
Essential nutrients are substances that the body requires for normal functioning but cannot produce on its own in sufficient amounts. They must be obtained from the diet. Examples of essential nutrients include carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, minerals, and water.
Carbohydrates serve as the body’s primary source of energy and are essential for brain function. Fats provide energy, insulation, and cushioning for organs. Proteins are crucial for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues, as well as enzyme and hormone production. Vitamins and minerals play vital roles in various bodily functions, such as immune system support, bone health, and antioxidant activity. Water is essential for hydration, nutrient transport, and temperature regulation.
3. Define macronutrients and micronutrients. Provide examples of each.
Macronutrients are nutrients that the body requires in large amounts to provide energy and support essential bodily functions. They include carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Carbohydrates are a macronutrient that serves as the primary energy source for the body. They are found in foods such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
Fats, another macronutrient, are a concentrated source of energy and provide insulation and cushioning for organs. They are found in foods such as oils, nuts, seeds, and fatty meats.
Proteins are macronutrients essential for the growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. They are found in foods such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, legumes, and some grains.
Micronutrients, on the other hand, are nutrients required in smaller amounts but are still essential for normal bodily function. They include vitamins and minerals.
Vitamins are organic compounds that play important roles in various bodily processes, such as immune function and energy production. Examples of vitamins include vitamin C, found in citrus fruits and leafy greens, and vitamin D, synthesized by the body through exposure to sunlight.
Minerals are inorganic substances that are necessary for various bodily functions, including bone health, nerve function, and electrolyte balance. Examples of minerals include calcium, found in dairy products, and iron, found in red meat and leafy greens.
4. What is the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates? Provide examples of each.
Simple carbohydrates, also known as sugars, are composed of one or two sugar molecules. They are quickly digested and absorbed, leading to a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. Examples of simple carbohydrates include table sugar (sucrose), fruit sugar (fructose), and milk sugar (lactose).
Complex carbohydrates, also known as starches and fibers, are composed of multiple sugar molecules. They take longer to digest and provide a slow and steady release of energy. Examples of complex carbohydrates include whole grains, legumes, and vegetables.
5. Explain the concept of energy balance and its relation to body weight.
Energy balance is the relationship between the energy intake from food and the energy expenditure by the body. It is achieved when the calories consumed through food equal the calories expended through physical activity and bodily processes.
When energy intake exceeds energy expenditure, the body stores the excess calories as fat, leading to weight gain. On the other hand, when energy expenditure exceeds energy intake, the body utilizes stored fat for energy, leading to weight loss.
Maintaining energy balance is essential for achieving and maintaining a healthy body weight. It involves consuming an appropriate number of calories based on individual needs and engaging in regular physical activity to support energy expenditure.