1 Foundations of Nutrition Science Free Online FlashCards

What makes a nutrient essential?

Essential nutrients must come from the diet because the body cannot make enough to meet its needs.

What is a key role of carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates provide about $4\ \text{kcal/g}$; many are broken down into glucose, an important fuel for cells.

How can dietary fiber support health?

Fiber is not fully digested. It supports bowel function and can influence blood cholesterol and glucose.

What are two important functions of protein?

Proteins are made of amino acids and help build and repair tissues. They also form enzymes, some hormones, transport molecules, and antibodies.

How does fat contribute energy and nutrient absorption?

Fat provides about $9\ \text{kcal/g}$, the most energy per gram among the macronutrients. It also supplies essential fatty acids and helps absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K.

What do micronutrients do, and do they provide calories?

Vitamins and minerals help regulate processes such as enzyme activity, blood formation, bone maintenance, nerve function, and immunity; they do not provide calories.

Name two functions of water in the body.

Water supports chemical reactions, transports substances, helps regulate body temperature, and contributes to blood volume.

What is a key role of iron?

Iron helps carry oxygen in the blood.

How does vitamin C support iron absorption?

Vitamin C supports connective-tissue formation and helps the body absorb iron from plant foods.

Where does most nutrient absorption occur?

Most nutrient absorption occurs through the small intestine into the blood or lymph.

What are two functions of the large intestine?

The large intestine absorbs water and contains microbes that ferment some fibers.

What is metabolism?

Metabolism is the network of chemical reactions that maintains life. Nutrients may be used, converted into other compounds, or stored after absorption.