Human Nutrition: Micronutrients, Hydration, Sports, and Gut Health

What are the general characteristics of vitamins?

Vitamins are organic compounds essential for various bodily functions, categorized into water-soluble and fat-soluble.

What is the importance of folate/folic acid in pregnant women?

Folate is crucial for fetal development and helps prevent neural tube defects.

What are the PA guidelines for Americans?

They include recommendations for physical activity levels to promote health and prevent chronic diseases.

What is sports anemia?

A condition often seen in athletes characterized by a decrease in red blood cells due to increased physical demands.

What are the symptoms of vitamin and mineral deficiency?

Symptoms vary by nutrient but can include fatigue, weakness, and impaired immune function.

What are the symptoms of vitamin and mineral toxicity?

Symptoms can include nausea, headaches, and more severe health issues depending on the nutrient.

What are good food sources of calcium?

Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are excellent sources of calcium.

What are the advantages of sports drinks?

They provide hydration, electrolytes, and carbohydrates to support performance during exercise.

What factors affect protein use as a fuel?

Factors include the intensity of exercise, availability of carbohydrates, and overall energy balance.

What is hyponatremia?

A condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, often caused by excessive fluid intake.

What are the recommended intakes for iron?

Recommendations vary by age, gender, and activity level, with higher needs for athletes and menstruating women.

What are the three energy systems used by the body?

The three systems are the phosphagen system, anaerobic glycolysis, and aerobic metabolism.

What are the components of an athlete's diet?

An athlete's diet should include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals tailored to their training needs.

What is the role of physical activity in weight management?

Physical activity helps regulate body weight by burning calories and improving metabolic health.

What are the effects of dysbiosis?

Dysbiosis can lead to digestive issues, inflammation, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

What is the significance of gut microbial diversity?

Higher gut microbial diversity is associated with better health outcomes and a lower risk of diseases.

What are prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics?

Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed gut bacteria, probiotics are live beneficial bacteria, and postbiotics are byproducts of probiotic metabolism.

What are the lifestyle factors influencing obesity?

Factors include diet, physical activity, sleep patterns, and stress levels.

What is the body's response to a calorie deficit?

The body may decrease metabolic rate, increase hunger hormones, and utilize fat stores for energy.

What are the measures of body composition?

Measures include BMI, body fat percentage, and waist-to-hip ratio.