Nutrition and Energy Requirements for Different People

Vocabulary flashcards covering units of nutritional energy, effects of kilojoule imbalance, factors determining individual energy needs, and classifications of physical activity.

Kilojoule ($kJ$)

A unit of energy derived from the foods and drinks we consume, specifically from carbohydrates, fats, and protein.

Calorie

A unit of energy mostly used in the USA, equivalent to $4.2\,\text{kJs}$ ($1\,\text{Calorie} = 4.2\,\text{kJs}$).

Consuming Too Many Kilojoules

Consuming more energy than the body needs, which causes the extra energy to be stored as fat and leads to weight gain.

Consuming Too Little Kilojoules

Not eating enough kilojoules, which leads to low energy, tiredness, poor growth, weight loss, and health problems over time.

Age (Energy Requirement Factor)

The energy requirement factor where younger individuals (children and teens) need more energy for growth and activity, whereas older individuals need less energy because metabolism slows down.

Gender (Energy Requirement Factor)

The energy requirement factor where men usually require more energy than women because they have more muscle mass, which burns more energy.

Weight (Energy Requirement Factor)

The energy requirement factor where people with more body weight need more energy to move and keep their body functioning due to having more body tissue.

Height (Energy Requirement Factor)

The energy requirement factor where taller people need more energy because they have a larger body to maintain (more height = more cells = more energy needed).

Physical Activity Levels

The principle that the more active a person is, the more energy their body needs.

Sedentary Behaviour / Lifestyle

Activities that require little to no movement and use very little energy or effort, such as sitting down, sleeping, working at a desk, or watching TV.

Moderate Exercise

Medium-intensity physical activity that requires moderate effort, such as dancing, gardening, or daily walking.

Vigorous Exercise

High-intensity physical activity that requires a lot of energy and effort, such as running, cycling, or athletic training.