F.3 HEALTH AND THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

Nutrition

The study of food and its relationship to good health.

Malnutrition

A condition resulting from improper or insufficient food intake ('mal' means bad).

Amino acids

Essential components required by body cells to make proteins, such as enzymes used in metabolic reactions.

ATP

Adenosine triphosphate, the energy currency of the cell generated from the bond energy in sugars.

Mineral ions

Essential nutrients found in food, such as calcium, which is necessary for muscle contraction and maintaining bone health.

Calcium deficiency

Inadequate amounts of calcium that compromise the body’s ability to function properly.

Dietary requirements

The specific nutritional needs that can vary from person to person, often depending on lifestyle, age, and activity level.

Eating disorders

Disruptions in eating behavior that may affect dietary requirements.

Food intolerances

Adverse reactions to certain foods that can influence an individual's diet.

Influences on diet

Factors such as traditions, culture, religion, location, food availability, and social media that affect one's food choices.