Introduction to Nutrition - Chapter 1 Overview

Flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 1 of Introduction to Nutrition, including definitions of nutrients, energy, assessment, the nutrition care process, public health context, science and research methods, and professionals in the field.

What is nutrition?

The study of the science of food and the nutrients therein, how we process these nutrients, their interaction in relation to our health and wellness.

What is a nutrient?

A substance that plants, animals, and people need to live and grow, used for growth, repair, and maintenance.

What makes a nutrient essential?

Nutrients that we must obtain from our diet because the body cannot synthesize them in adequate quantities.

How many classes of nutrients are there and which are macronutrients?

Six classes: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, water (macronutrients) and vitamins, minerals (micronutrients).

What are phytochemicals?

Biologically active compounds in plant-based foods (and some in animal foods) that promote health; examples include lycopene, anthocyanins, and phenols.

What is a functional food?

A food that provides a health benefit beyond its nutrient content, often in its whole plant-based form.

What is a nutraceutical?

A product that provides a nutrient or bioactive in higher doses, sometimes used like a pharmaceutical.

What distinguishes organic from inorganic nutrients?

Organic nutrients contain carbon; inorganic nutrients do not.

Do calories come from energy-containing nutrients and alcohol?

Yes; calories come from carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and also from alcohol (which is not a nutrient).

What are non-energy nutrients?

Water, vitamins, and minerals.

What factors influence what we eat?

External factors like availability, affordability, access; internal factors like hunger, biology, and personal history.

What is the Nutrition Care Process?

A framework of nutrition assessment, diagnosis, intervention, and evaluation; RDs identify problems but do not diagnose.

What is malnutrition in the USA context?

Malnutrition is present due to various causes and is influenced by factors like food insecurity and access to food.

What is Healthy People 2020?

A public health policy framework guiding nutrition-related policy and the food supply.

What is the difference between causation and correlation?

Correlation does not equal causation; evidence is needed to establish a causal relationship.

What is the hierarchy of evidence in nutrition research?

Higher quality evidence includes systematic reviews and randomized trials; cohort studies are strong; editorials and case reports are weaker; beware pseudoscience.

How should nutrition advice be evaluated?

Look for red flags and rely on credible, science-based sources.

Who is the nutrition expert emphasized in the notes?

The Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN), trained in nutrition and clinical practice.

What will the course teach about study designs?

You will learn to identify study designs, plan studies, and understand the evidence hierarchy.