BSc Medical Sciences: Human Biology Module - Nutrition PDF

BSc Medical Sciences: Human Biology Module Topic: Nutrition  Learning Outcomes i. Define and explain nutrition and its importance in maintaining health and supporting metabolic processes. ii. Describe the role of macronutrients and micronutrients in the bo...

BSc Medical Sciences: Human Biology Module Topic: Nutrition  Learning Outcomes i. Define and explain nutrition and its importance in maintaining health and supporting metabolic processes. ii. Describe the role of macronutrients and micronutrients in the body, including their sources and functions. iii. Explain the process of metabolism, including anabolism and catabolism, and how the body utilises nutrients for energy. iv. Discuss the factors affecting metabolism, such as age, gender, and physical activity. v. Analyse dietary requirements and guidelines for maintaining a balanced diet and preventing nutritional deficiencies.  Introduction to Nutrition and Metabolism Nutrition encompasses the nutrients that organisms consume and how these are used to support growth, maintenance, and basic processes of life. Metabolism refers to chemical reactions that convert these nutrients into energy and other necessary substances within the body. - Concepts of Anabolism and Catabolism: Anabolism involves using energy to construct components of cells, while catabolism breaks down organic matter and harnesses energy by decomposing complex molecules.  Macronutrients and Their Functions Macronutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, each serving essential roles in the human body: - Carbohydrates are the primary energy source, especially for the brain and during physical activity. - Proteins serve as the building blocks for tissues and are crucial for immune function and hormone production. - Fats are essential for storing energy, insulating body organs, and helping regulate hormonal functions. Micronutrients: Vitamins and Minerals Micronutrients are vitamins and minerals that support body processes at the cellular level, influencing energy production, immune function, and bone health, among other roles. - Vitamins such as Vitamin C and D play roles in protecting the body against oxidative stress and enhancing immune function. - Minerals like iron and calcium are critical for oxygen transport and skeletal integrity, respectively.  Metabolic Pathways: An Overview Metabolic pathways involve complex sequences of chemical reactions that are crucial for maintaining life. These pathways enable organisms to grow, reproduce, maintain their structures, and respond to environmental changes. - Glycolysis, Citric Acid Cycle, and Oxidative Phosphorylation: Central pathways in energy metabolism that transform nutrients into energy. Glycolysis and TCA cycle Oxidative phosphorylation  Factors Influencing Metabolism Several factors influence an individual's metabolism, affecting how quickly or efficiently the body processes calories: - Age: Metabolic rate decreases with age as muscle mass declines. - Gender: Males often have a higher metabolic rate than females due to larger proportions of muscle. - Physical Activity: Regular physical activity boosts metabolic rate by building muscle, which burns more calories than fat.  Dietary Guidelines for Balanced Nutrition Proper nutrition involves consuming a balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to maintain health. Dietary guidelines provide a framework for making healthy eating choices: - Emphasizing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. - Limiting sugars, salts, and high-fat foods.  Exploring Metabolism with a Case Study Case studies help illustrate how metabolic rates differ among individuals based on genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, such as age, gender, and physical activity levels. - Analysis of how these factors contribute to the overall metabolic health of individuals.  Understanding Caloric Balance Maintaining a healthy weight involves balancing caloric intake with caloric expenditure. This balance is crucial for preventing weight-related health issues such as obesity and malnutrition. - Strategies to achieve caloric balance include managing diet portions and increasing physical activity. Techniques for Nutritional Assessment Nutritional assessment methods are used to evaluate dietary intake and ensure nutritional adequacy. These techniques include dietary surveys, food diaries, and direct observation, aiding in identifying potential nutritional deficiencies or excesses. - Recommendations for dietary adjustments based on assessment results.  Concluding Overview of Nutrition This session underscored the importance of nutrition and metabolism in maintaining health and supporting the body's necessary functions. Understanding these concepts is crucial for making informed health and dietary choices, which impact overall well-being and quality of life. - Key takeaway: A well-balanced diet rich in essential nutrients supports optimal health and metabolic function. Preparation for Next Topic: Respiratory System Encouraging students to prepare for the next lecture on the respiratory system by reviewing related materials and considering how nutrition impacts respiratory health. - Suggested reading to deepen understanding of the interplay between nutrition and respiratory function.