Nutrition N310 Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to nutrition, important for understanding dietary practices and nursing interventions in nutritional care.

Nutrients

Specific biochemical substances used by the body for growth, development, activity, reproduction, lactation, health maintenance, and recovery from illness or injury.

Essential Nutrients

Nutrients that are necessary for body functions and must be obtained from food.

Macro Nutrients

Nutrients required in larger amounts, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Micro Nutrients

Nutrients required in smaller amounts, including vitamins and minerals.

Carbohydrates

Nutrients that supply energy, including sugars and starches.

Proteins

Vital components of living cells necessary for body structure and function.

Lipids

Fats that provide energy and assist in nutrient absorption.

Vitamins

Organic compounds needed by the body in small amounts for metabolism.

Minerals

Inorganic elements essential for various bodily functions.

Water

A crucial nutrient that accounts for 50-60% of body weight, necessary for life.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

The number of calories required to fuel involuntary activities of the body at rest.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measurement that estimates body fat based on weight and height.

Energy Balance

The relationship between calories consumed and calories used by the body.

Total Daily Energy Expenditure

The total calories used to perform daily activities and bodily functions.

Daily Energy Intake

Total calories consumed from foods during each day.

Underweight BMI

A Body Mass Index of less than 18.5.

Healthy weight BMI

A Body Mass Index ranging from 18.5 to 24.9.

Overweight BMI

A Body Mass Index ranging from 25.0 to 29.9.

Obesity Class I BMI

A Body Mass Index ranging from 30.0 to 34.9.

Obesity Class II BMI

A Body Mass Index ranging from 35.0 to 39.9.

Extreme Obesity Class III BMI

A Body Mass Index of 40 or greater.

Waist Circumference

Measurement used as an indicator of abdominal fat and disease risk.

Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR)

A measure used to assess central obesity.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, which can lead to nutritional challenges.

Therapeutic Diets

Diet plans tailored to manage specific health conditions.

Clear Liquid Diet

A diet consisting only of clear fluids or foods that convert to fluid at body temperature.

Puréed Diet

A diet that includes foods blenderized to liquid form.

Mechanically Altered Diet

A diet modified for texture; excludes raw fruits and vegetables.

Short-term Nutritional Support

Nutrition delivered via nasogastric or naso-intestinal routes.

Long-term Nutritional Support

Nutrition delivered via gastrostomy or jejunostomy tubes.

Enteral Nutrition

Feeding directly into the gastrointestinal tract via a tube.

Parenteral Nutrition (PN)

Nutritional support given intravenously, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

Enterostomal Tube

A tube inserted through the skin into the stomach or jejunum for feeding.

Nutritional Assessment

Evaluation of dietary, medical, and socio-economic data to determine nutritional status.

Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs)

Guidelines for daily nutrient intake to prevent deficiencies.

Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)

The daily dietary nutrient intake level sufficient for most individuals.

MyPlate

A food guide that encourages a balanced diet through visual representation.

Social Determinants of Health

Factors affecting health and nutrition such as economic stability and access to healthcare.

Cultural Nutrition Practices

Dietary practices influenced by cultural beliefs and values.

Food Ideology

Beliefs about food and eating that influence dietary choices.

Significant Nutritional Goals

Targets set to improve or maintain nutritional status.

Patient Education

Teaching patients about nutrition and dietary practices.

Signs of Malnutrition

Indicators such as weight loss, fatigue, and vitamin deficiency.

Complications of Malnutrition

Health issues arising from inadequate nutrient intake.

Fluid and Electrolyte Balance

The equilibrium of fluids and minerals in the body necessary for health.

Anorexia

Lack of appetite, which can hinder nutrition.

Obesity

A condition characterized by excessive body fat, typically with a BMI of 30 or higher.