Nutrition Basics
What do nutrients do for the body?
They regulate body functions, promote growth, repair tissues, and provide energy
What should you check first on a nutrition label?
Serving size.
Name the two main types of fats.
Saturated and unsaturated fats
Proteins contain what unique element not found in carbs or fats?
Nitrogen
What are fat‑soluble vitamins?
A, D, E, K. Stored in body
Name the six classes of nutrients.
Carbohydrates, fats, protein, vitamins, minerals, water.
What do ALL carbs break down into?
Glucose.
Which fats are liquid at room temperature?
Unsaturated fats
What is the most important function of protein?
Growth and repair of body tissue.
Vitamin C deficiency leads to what disease?
Scurvy
What percentage of body weight is water?
About 65%
What are simple carbohydrates also known as?
Sugars
What kind of fat is “heart healthy” and raises HDL while lowering LDL?
Polyunsaturated fats.
How many essential amino acids are there?
9.
What mineral strengthens bones and teeth?
Calcium
What is metabolism?
The chemical process where your body breaks down food to release energy.
Give two examples of a highly processed food to limit.
Chips, cookies, candy, soda, energy drinks. (Any correct)
What are trans fats?
Oils with added hydrogen; found in chips and baked goods; act like saturated fat.
Complete proteins come from which sources?
Animal sources.
Iron deficiency leads to what condition?
Anemia
What happens when calorie intake exceeds calorie use?
Weight increases (excess energy is stored as fat)
Which beverage should teens avoid according to the guidelines?
Sugar‑sweetened beverages (soda, fruit drinks, energy drinks)
Name one function of fats.
Provide energy, form cells, maintain body temp, protect nerves
How can vegetarians get all essential amino acids?
By combining plant proteins (example: rice + beans)
Which two electrolyte minerals help regulate water balance?
Sodium and potassium