Metabolism, Nutrition, Temperature - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering metabolism, nutrition, and temperature concepts from the notes.

Catabolism

The breakdown of complex compounds into simpler components during metabolism.

Glucose

The principal energy source for cells.

Anaerobic phase (cellular respiration)

Glycolysis end product is pyruvate when oxygen is scarce.

Aerobic phase (cellular respiration)

End products are CO2 and water; requires oxygen.

Urea

Amino acid waste product eliminated by the kidneys.

Glycogenolysis

Breakdown of glycogen to glucose to release glucose when needed.

Ketone bodies

Metabolic products of fatty acids used as an energy source during fasting.

Energy yield of fat

Fats provide about 9 kcal/g, more than twice the energy of proteins or carbohydrates.

Muscle proteolysis (protein catabolism)

Breaking down body proteins to supply amino acids when protein intake is inadequate.

Glycemic index

A measure of how quickly carbohydrates raise blood glucose and insulin levels; simple sugars typically cause rapid spikes.

Dietary fiber

Indigestible plant material that adds bulk, slows digestion, and lowers cholesterol.

Water-soluble vitamins

Vitamins B and C that dissolve in water and are not stored extensively.

Fat-soluble vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E, and K that dissolve in fats and can be stored in body tissues.

Vitamin K

Vitamin required for synthesis of clotting factors.

Iron

Mineral that carries oxygen in hemoglobin.

Iodine

Mineral essential for synthesis of thyroid hormones.

Alcohol's effects on the liver

Can cause fat accumulation, inflammation, and scarring.

Alcohol's effects on digestion

May cause ulcers in the digestive tract.

Alcohol's effects on cardiovascular system

In some contexts may have a beneficial effect.

Kwashiorkor

Edema and other symptoms caused by protein deficiency and low blood albumin.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measurement to evaluate body size based on height and weight.

Obesity

Excess body fat associated with higher risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers.

Protein catabolism during starvation

The breakdown of body proteins to supply amino acids for energy during starvation.

Radiation (heat transfer)

Heat transfer in the form of electromagnetic waves away from the body.

Evaporation (heat loss)

Heat loss when liquid becomes vapor, e.g., sweating.

Conduction (heat transfer)

Direct heat transfer from the body to a cooler object.

Metabolic heat production

Heat generated during ATP synthesis in mitochondria; reflects tissue activity.

Hypothalamic thermoregulation

The hypothalamus regulates body temperature; cold triggers vasoconstriction and shivering; heat triggers vasodilation and sweating.

Fever

Elevated body temperature in response to infection, tumors, or vaccines.

Heat exhaustion

Inability to sustain physical activity in heat; symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat; treated with rest and fluids.

Heat stroke

Medical emergency with body temperature >104°F; treated with cooling and fluids/electrolytes.

Hypothermia

Condition of an abnormally low body temperature.