Digestion
True or false: eating consistently helps support normal digestive function
True! Establishing a consistent rhythm of eating helps heal the brain-gut connection, repair the digestive tract & support healthy digestion.
Which macronutrient does our brain primarily rely on for fuel?
Carbohydrates
Name 2 reasons why eating enough fat is important.
• Fat-soluble vitamin absorption
• Hormone production
• Thermoregulation
• Building blocks of brain structure
• Energy production
• Maintaining cell membrane structure
What are the 2 main categories of micronutrients?
Vitamins
Minerals
What is a symptom of poor carbohydrate intake?
Low energy, brain fog, difficulty concentrating
Name 2 mindfulness practices that help activate the parasympathetic nervous system and ease digestion.
• Deep breathing
• Engage the 5 senses
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Focus on a soothing affirmation
Which macronutrient forms the building blocks of brain structure?
Fat
Name 2 reasons why eating enough carbohydrates is important.
• Support stable energy levels
• Spare protein intake for muscle repair
Name the 4 fat-soluble vitamins.
Vitamin ADEK!
Can only be absorbed in the presence of fat.
Iron deficiency leads to this condition.
Anemia
What are 2 symptoms of slowed digestion?
Early onset fullness, constipation, bloating, GI discomfort
Which macronutrient is key in supporting muscle and tissue growth and repair?
Protein
Name 2 reasons why eating enough fat is important.
• Supports fat-soluble vitamin absorption
• Supports skin, hair and nail growth
• Supports hormone production
• Key part of brain structure (neural lining)
• Tastes delish
The sun is one of the best sources of this vitamin.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency leads to this bone condition.
Rickets
True or false: food restriction slows digestion.
True
Name 1 main function of the kidney.
Filter our bloodstream and get rid of waste products and toxins through urine.
Name 3 sources of protein.
Eggs, dairy, meat, poultry, nuts
Eating an iron-rich food with a source of this Vitamin increases iron absorption in the body.
Vitamin C
Scurvy is caused by a deficiency in what vitamin?
Vitamin C
• Sources of Vitamin C: citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes, red pepper, strawberries
Which part of the nervous system activates the "rest & digest" mode?
Parasympathetic nervous system
Name 2 important functions of the liver
• Largest storage of glycogen in the body (back-up stores of glucose to support stable blood glucose levels overnight)
• Detoxes the blood
Name 3 sources of fat
Oil, butter, avocado, nuts, nut butter, seeds, hummus
Name 2 water-soluble vitamins
Vitamin C, B Vitamins
Night blindness is caused by a deficiency in which Vitamin?
Vitamin A
• Sources of Vitamin A: red and orange fruits & vegetables, fish, fortified cereals