8.1

Study Notes

Nutrition and Its Importance

Nutrition is the process of providing the body with the necessary nutrients to maintain health and well-being.
A healthy eating plan helps make food choices that support lifestyle.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are the body's major source of energy.
Fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products contain carbohydrates.
Simple carbohydrates consist of one or two sugars, while complex carbohydrates are made up of many sugars.
Glucose is the most common sugar found in foods and is usually joined to other sugars.
The body can use glucose immediately for energy or store it in the liver and muscles for later use.

Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber cannot be completely digested but has many health benefits.
It helps balance glucose levels, adds bulk to feces, and prevents constipation and hemorrhoids.
Fiber can also make people feel full, preventing overeating.

Proteins

Proteins are necessary for building and maintaining cells and tissues.
They provide energy and are used to make hormones and enzymes.
Amino acids make up proteins, and there are 20 different types.
The body produces some amino acids, but nine essential amino acids must be obtained through food.
Complete protein sources contain all essential amino acids, while incomplete protein sources do not.

Fats

Fats are an important nutrient for the body's metabolism and transport of certain vitamins and minerals.
Saturated fats are found primarily in animal-based foods, while unsaturated fats are found in plant-based foods.
Fats are stored in the body as body fat, which helps regulate body temperature, protect internal organs, and provide energy.

Vitamins

Vitamins are organic substances necessary for normal growth and development.
They help regulate body processes and are required in small amounts.
There are two types of vitamins: fat-soluble and water-soluble.
Fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K, while water-soluble vitamins include B vitamins and vitamin C.

Minerals

Minerals are inorganic elements absorbed by plants from soil and water.
They are necessary for growth and development, and different minerals have different functions.
Major minerals include calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, sodium, and chloride.
Trace minerals include iron, iodine, zinc, selenium, and others.
Minerals are found in various food sources, including dairy products, meat, fish, nuts, and vegetables.

Water

Water is necessary for most body functions.
It maintains body temperature, cushions and lubricates joints, and protects the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues.
Water gets rid of waste and helps move oxygen, nutrients, and other materials throughout the body.
Not consuming enough water can lead to dehydration, which can cause serious health problems.
Fluid needs can change depending on factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, and physical activity.

Description

Learn about the basics of nutrition, including the role of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals in the body. Understand the importance of water and develop strategies for a healthy diet.