Nutrition and Macronutrients Overview

A physiological sensation that prompts us to eat. It is triggered by the brain, specifically the hypothalamus.

The psychological desire to consume specific foods. It is influenced by factors like taste, smell, and visual appeal.

The process by which large food molecules are broken down into smaller molecules through mechanical and chemical actions.

The process of taking digested food molecules through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream.

The process of removing undigested food portions and waste products from the body.

The rhythmic contraction and relaxation of circular and longitudinal muscles that propels food through the digestive tract.

A nutritionally based eating plan designed to lower blood pressure. It emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean protein.

The feeling of fullness or satisfaction that occurs after eating.

The amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of 1 kg of water by 1 degree Celsius.

The energy provided by carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and alcohol when broken down by the body.

A set of nutrient intake standards used to assess and plan diets.

The amount of a nutrient that meets the needs of 50% of healthy individuals within a specific age/sex group.

The amount of a nutrient that meets the needs of 97-98% of healthy individuals within a specific age/sex group.

A set of recommendations that specify the energy intake percentages from different macronutrients (CHO, protein, lipids).

A method used in nutrition research to compare an experimental group receiving a treatment to a control group that doesn't. This allows researchers to determine if a treatment has an effect.

A type of research study where neither the participants nor the researchers know who's receiving the treatment or placebo. This helps minimize bias.

The process of breaking down proteins into smaller molecules, primarily amino acids.

Amino acids that our body can make from other components.

Amino acids that our body cannot make and must be obtained from our diet.

A nonessential amino acid that becomes essential in certain conditions, such as phenylketonuria (PKU).

A chemical reaction where an amine group (NH2) from an amino acid is transferred to another molecule.

The process of replacing old cells with new ones. This happens constantly in our bodies to maintain health and function.

A protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body without being changed itself. Enzymes help break down food, build molecules, and regulate many processes.

A chemical messenger produced by the body that travels in the bloodstream to target cells and tissues. Hormones regulate many functions, like growth, metabolism, and mood.

The ability of proteins to attract and hold water. This is important for maintaining fluid balance in the body.

Proteins that help regulate the pH (acidity or alkalinity) of the body. They prevent drastic changes that could be harmful.

Proteins that transport substances throughout the body, like lipids (fats), vitamins, minerals, and oxygen.

Proteins that identify and neutralize foreign substances, like bacteria and viruses. This is part of the immune system.

The process of breaking down protein molecules into smaller units called amino acids. This happens in the digestive system.

A condition where the body has a negative reaction to the protein gluten, leading to inflammation and damage of the small intestine.

The breakdown of larger molecules into smaller units, releasing energy.

The process of building complex molecules from smaller units, requiring energy.

The breakdown of triglycerides (fats) into fatty acids and glycerol.

The process where free fatty acids are oxidized to produce energy.

Unstable molecules that damage cells by stealing electrons.

Compounds that stabilize free radicals, protecting cells from damage.

Essential for vision, immune function, reproduction, and cellular communication.

Acts as an antioxidant, coenzyme, and helps with collagen synthesis, immune support.

Essential for energy release, supporting DNA repair and metabolism.

The primary fluid balance regulator in the body.

A major positively charged ion involved in fluid balance and muscle function.

A major negatively charged electrolyte important for bone health and energy production.

The movement of lipids and fat-soluble vitamins through the lymphatic system.

Clusters of immune cells that filter microbes and harmful agents from the lymph.

A condition where acidic gastric juice flows back into the esophagus.

A sore in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, often caused by H. pylori bacteria.

A digestive disorder that affects the large intestine, causing symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the entire digestive tract.

A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the colon, causing inflammation and ulcers.

A digestive system response to certain food components, often involving an immune response.

A digestive response to food that doesn't involve the immune system.

Short-chain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed and highly fermentable in the gut.

A complex carbohydrate made of many glucose molecules.

The major carbohydrate digesting enzyme produced by the pancreas.

The process of breaking down carbohydrates by adding water.

The process by which glucose enters cells using energy and carrier proteins.