Understanding Food and Nutrients

These flashcards cover key concepts related to food and nutrients, their functions, sources, and related tests.

What are the seven types of food substances essential to health?

Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, minerals, vitamins, dietary fibre, and water.

What is the function of carbohydrates in our body?

Carbohydrates serve as the main energy source for body activities and can act as energy reserves.

What is hydrolysis in relation to carbohydrates?

Hydrolysis is the reaction where disaccharides and polysaccharides are broken down into monosaccharides with the addition of water.

What deficiency disease may result from a lack of proteins in the diet?

Kwashiorkor is a deficiency disease resulting from a lack of proteins.

What are the sources of calcium in our diet?

Canned sardines, milk, dairy products, tofu, and some green vegetables like kale, broccoli, and spinach.

What happens when there is a deficiency of iron in the body?

A deficiency of iron may lead to anaemia, causing individuals to faint easily.

What are the functions of vitamin C?

Vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of connective tissues, healing wounds, promoting iron absorption, and proper immune system function.

What test can be used to detect the presence of starch?

The iodine test, where a change in the color of the iodine solution from brown to blue-black indicates the presence of starch.

What is the function of dietary fibre?

Dietary fibre aids in digestion by helping faeces pass out of the body and is linked to reducing the risk of colorectal cancer.

How is a balanced diet defined?

A balanced diet consists of all food substances in the right amounts and proportions to maintain health.