Healthy Diet and Digestion Overview

This set of flashcards covers key concepts in planning a healthy diet and understanding digestion and absorption processes.

What are the 6 basic principles of planning a healthy diet?

Moderation, variety, balance, nutrient density, adequacy, calorie control.

What does 'nutrient-dense foods' mean?

Foods that are high in nutrients compared to their calorie content.

What are 'empty calories'?

Calories from foods that provide little to no nutritional value.

What is the Choose My Plate food guide?

A visual guide to help consumers make healthier food choices across different food groups.

What are the food groups emphasized on the Choose My Plate visual guide?

Fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy.

What does the term 'serving size' refer to?

The recommended quantity of food from each food group that is considered a single serving.

What is digestion?

The process of breaking down food into smaller components for absorption.

Which hormones coordinate the digestion process?

Hormones such as gastrin, secretin, and cholecystokinin (CCK).

What are the main secretions of digestion in the GI tract?

Saliva, gastric juice, bile, pancreatic juice, and intestinal juice.

What organs produce digestive secretions?

Salivary glands, stomach, pancreas, liver, and intestines.

What is the main role of saliva in digestion?

To begin the breakdown of carbohydrates and lubricate food for swallowing.

What is the role of gastric juice in digestion?

To break down food and kill pathogens.

What are the three physical processes that aid digestion?

Ingestion, peristalsis, and segmentation.

What is the function of the tongue in digestion?

To help move food around in the mouth and aid in swallowing.

What is the role of the epiglottis?

To prevent food from entering the trachea during swallowing.

What is the primary function of the small intestine?

To digest food and absorb nutrients into the bloodstream.

Where are water-soluble nutrients absorbed?

They are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Where are fat-soluble nutrients absorbed?

They are absorbed into the lymphatic system.

What are common GI disorders?

Constipation, diarrhea, ulcers, and lactose intolerance.

What causes lactose intolerance?

A deficiency in lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose.

What are some treatments for constipation?

Increase fiber intake, hydration, and physical activity.

What promotes GI health?

A diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and regular physical activity.

What factors promote GI diseases?

Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and stress.