Nutritional Science Review

Flashcards covering key vitamins, nutritional concepts, and protein-related information essential for exam preparation.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)

A vitamin whose deficiency causes beriberi, characterized by weakness and tingling in hands.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

A vitamin whose severe deficiency leads to the disease pellagra.

Vitamin B6

A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to sore tongue, skin inflammation, depression, and anemia.

Folate

Essential during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects like spina bifida.

Vitamin C

A vitamin whose deficiency can cause scurvy, with symptoms including rough skin and wounds that do not heal.

Vitamin A

A vitamin found in liver and dairy; its precursor is beta carotene, found in colorful fruits and vegetables.

Vitamin D

Known as the 'Sunshine vitamin' as it can be synthesized with UV exposure, crucial for bone health and immune function.

Vitamin E

This vitamin acts as a powerful antioxidant and anticoagulant, commonly found in vegetable oils and nuts.

Vitamin K

Essential for blood clotting; newborns often receive shots of this vitamin until their gut flora can produce it.

Complete Proteins

Proteins that contain all essential amino acids, found in animal products and soy.

Incomplete Proteins

Proteins lacking one or more essential amino acids, typically found in plant foods.

Protein Quality

Determined by protein digestibility and amino acid profile.

Daily Protein Needs

Calculable by 0.8 g/kg of body weight for sedentary individuals and 1.2 to 2.2 g/kg for active individuals.

Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM)

A condition resulting from inadequate protein and/or calorie intake, more common in children and older adults.

Protein Supplements

Products that may promise benefits but are unnecessary with a balanced diet.

Complementary Proteins

Plant proteins that can combine to provide all essential amino acids, not needing to be consumed at the same time.