Chapter 5: Nutrition

Why do we need food?

Its role is to "provide energy" + "to synthesize protoplasm" + "maintain health and prevent deficiencies".

What is Carbohydrate?

They are "organic compounds" made up of the elements made up of the elements carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.

What are Fats?

They are "organic compounds" made up of the elements carbon, hydrogen and oxygen but, unlike carbohydrates, they contain much less oxygen in proportion to hydrogen.

What are Proteins?

They are "complex organic substances" containing carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen.

What are Vitamins?

They are group of "chemically unrelated organic compounds" required in the diet of humans in "minute amounts".

What are Minerals?

They are "inorganic salts" which "do not provide energy" but are "indispensable to bodily functions".

What is the role of Water?

It is the essential "constituent of protoplasm".

What is the role of Carbohydrates?

They are a "source of energy" + helps in "formation of nucleic acid" + help "produce nectar in some plants".

What is the role of Proteins?

They are "essential for the synthesis of protoplasm" + for "growth and repair of worn out body cells" + for "synthesis of enzymes and hormones" + for "formation of antibodies to combat disease".

What is the role of Fats?

They are "storage form of energy" + "insulating material beneath the skin" + a "solvent for fat soluble vitamins" and many other vital substances such as hormones.