Nutrition for Nursing

This set of flashcards is designed to aid nursing students in understanding key nutritional concepts studied within their course, focusing on definitions and important information related to nutrition that affects health care.

Nutrition

The science that studies how food and its components are taken in and utilized by the body for energy, growth, and overall health.

Traditional Health Care

A reactive approach focusing on treating illnesses after symptoms appear.

Preventive Health Care

A proactive approach aiming to stop disease before it develops.

The Basic Six Nutrients

Essential nutrients that the body needs: Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats, Vitamins, Minerals, and Water.

Mechanical Digestion

The physical breakdown of food into smaller pieces, such as chewing.

Chemical Digestion

The breakdown of food using enzymes and acids.

Peristalsis

Wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system.

Absorption

The process of taking in nutrients from food into the body.

Whole Foods

Natural foods that have not been processed or refined.

Supplements

Products intended to add nutritional value to the diet.

Cholecystokinin

A hormone that stimulates digestion of fats and proteins.

Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals needed in small quantities for health.

Macronutrients

Nutrients required in large amounts: carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Dietary Fiber

Indigestible plant material that aids in digestion.

Vitamins

Essential organic compounds the body needs in small amounts for growth and health.

Minerals

Inorganic elements that are critical for bodily functions.

Carbohydrates

Primary source of energy for the body.

Proteins

Complex molecules made of amino acids that play a role in tissue building.

Fats

A type of nutrient that provides energy and supports cell structures.

Water

Essential nutrient involved in various bodily functions.

Calcium

A mineral important for bone health.

Vitamin A

Fat-soluble vitamin vital for vision and immune function.

Vitamin D

Essential for calcium absorption and bone health.

Vitamin E

An antioxidant that protects cell membranes.

Vitamin K

Important for blood clotting and bone metabolism.

Thiamin (Vitamin B1)

A water-soluble vitamin essential for energy metabolism.

Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)

A water-soluble vitamin important for energy production.

Niacin (Vitamin B3)

Involved in DNA repair and metabolism.

Biotin (Vitamin B7)

Supports hair, skin, and nail health.

Folate (Vitamin B9)

Crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division.

Cobalamin (Vitamin B12)

Vital for nerve function and red blood cell formation.

Digestive Tract

The system responsible for breaking down and absorbing food.

Diarrhea

Frequent, loose, or watery bowel movements often caused by various foods.

Lactose Intolerance

Inability to digest lactose, leading to severe digestive issues.

Fortified Foods

Foods that have nutrients added to enhance their nutritional value.

Electrolytes

Minerals that help balance fluids in the body.

Healthy Eating

Diet consisting of appropriate amounts of nutrients to support health.

Public Health Campaigns

Initiatives aimed at improving community health behaviors.

Clinical Diets

Specialized diets designed to manage specific health conditions.

Nutritional Counseling

Guidance given to individuals regarding healthy eating habits.

Hydration

The process of maintaining the body's water balance.

Cholesterol

A type of fat found in your blood, necessary for building cells.

Dietary Guidelines

Recommendations for maintaining a healthy diet.

Antioxidants

Substances that may protect your cells from damage.

Rickets

A deficiency disease resulting in weak or soft bones, often due to lack of vitamin D.

Osteoporosis

A condition characterized by weak and brittle bones.

Pellagra

A disease caused by niacin deficiency, leading to dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia.

Symptoms of Deficiency

Signs indicating a lack of essential nutrients.

Food Sources of Vitamins

Foods that provide essential vitamins required for health.

Vitamin C

Important for collagen synthesis and immune function.

Weight Management

The process of both losing and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Chronic Diseases

Long-lasting conditions that can be controlled but not cured.

Nutrition Education

Teaching individuals about healthy dietary practices.

Eating Patterns

The overall types of food and drink consumed by an individual.

Disease Prevention

Actions taken to avoid the occurrence of diseases.

Caloric Intake

The number of calories consumed through food and drink.

Fatty Foods

Foods high in fats that can impact health negatively if consumed in excess.

Whole Grains

Grains that contain all parts of the seed, providing more nutrients.

Spices

Plant-derived seasonings that enhance flavor and may have health benefits.

Herbs

Plants used for flavoring and medicinal purposes.

Public Health Nutrition

The study of nutrition within the contexts of public health.

Food Labels

Information on packaging that indicates nutrient content.

Allergies

Immune responses to certain foods.

Glycemic Index

A ranking of carbohydrates in food according to their effect on blood sugar levels.

Meal Planning

The process of preparing for future meals considering nutritional needs.

Food Safety

Protecting food from contamination and spoilage.

Superfoods

Nutrient-rich foods considered to be especially beneficial for health.

Fasting

The practice of abstaining from all or some types of food or drink.

Nutrient Density

The amount of nutrients in a food compared to the number of calories it contains.

Chronic Inflammation

Long-term inflammation that can lead to various diseases.

Cognitive Function

Processes related to thinking, learning, and memory.

Nutritional Supplements

Products taken to enhance the diet that may contain vitamins or minerals.

Dietary Modifications

Adjustments made to a person's diet based on health needs.

Phytochemicals

Compounds produced by plants that have health benefits.

Mood Regulation

The influence of diet on emotional well-being.

Eating Disorders

Abnormal eating habits that negatively impact health.

Nutrition Research

Scientific study of dietary patterns and their effects on health.

Nutritional Strategies

Methods or approaches used to improve dietary habits.

Caloric Deficit

Eating fewer calories than the body uses, leading to weight loss.

Caloric Surplus

Eating more calories than the body uses, leading to weight gain.

Dietary Proteins

Foods that provide amino acids essential for health.