Ch. 11 Nutrients and Diets
Nutrition
The process by which the body takes in and uses food for growth, repair, and maintenance.
Basal Metabolic Rate
The rate at which the body uses energy while at rest to keep vital functions (like breathing) going.
Vitamins
Organic compounds needed in small amounts for various metabolic functions
Calorie
A unit of energy derived from food.
Atherosclerosis
Hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to plaque buildup.
Nutritional Status
The state of a person’s health in relation to the nutrients they consume and utilize.
Essential Nutrients
Nutrients that the body cannot synthesize on its own (or in sufficient amounts) and must be obtained from diet.
Minerals
Inorganic elements (like calcium or iron) required by the body to function properly.
Body Mass Index (BMI):
A measure of body fat based on height and weight.
Osteoporosis
A condition where bones become weak, brittle, and fragile.
Digestion
The mechanical and chemical breakdown of food into smaller components that the body can absorb
Carbohydrates
The body’s primary energy source, found in sugars, starches, and fibers.
Antioxidants
: Substances that inhibit oxidation and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Underweight / Overweight / Obesity:
Categories of weight status based on BMI and body fat percentage.
Wellness
An overall state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal.
Absorption
The process by which nutrients pass through the walls of the digestive tract into the bloodstream
Proteins
Essential for building and repairing tissues; made up of amino acids.
Cellulose
A complex carbohydrate found in the cell walls of plants; provides dietary fiber.
Diabetes Mellitus:
A disease where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels.
Malnutrition
A lack of proper nutrition, caused by not having enough to eat or not eating the right things.
Metabolism
The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life (converting food to energy).
Lipids / Fats
Concentrated energy sources that help with hormone production and vitamin absorption.
Cholesterol
A waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body, used to make hormones and vitamin D.
Hypertension
High blood pressure
Therapeutic Diets
Meal plans prescribed by a doctor to treat a specific medical condition.