Nutrition Lecture Notes

These flashcards cover key concepts related to nutrition, including macronutrients, micronutrients, dietary assessment, and more.

Nutrition

The process by which organisms take in and utilize food material.

Macronutrients

Nutrients required in large amounts; includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Micronutrients

Nutrients required in small amounts; includes vitamins and minerals.

BMI

Body Mass Index, a measure of body fat based on height and weight.

Enteral Nutrition

Delivery of nutrients directly into the gastrointestinal tract.

Malnutrition

A condition that results from an imbalanced intake of nutrients.

Carbohydrates

Organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen; primary energy source.

Monosaccharides

The simplest form of carbohydrates, consisting of single sugar molecules.

Disaccharides

Carbohydrates formed from the combination of two monosaccharides.

Polysaccharides

Carbohydrates that are made up of long chains of monosaccharides.

Proteins

Essential macronutrients needed for the growth and repair of body tissues.

Vitamins

Organic compounds that are essential for normal growth and nutrition, required in small quantities.

Essential Fatty Acids

Fats that the body cannot synthesize and must be obtained from the diet.

Lipoproteins

Molecules composed of proteins and lipids that transport fats in the body.

Antioxidants

Substances that inhibit oxidation and neutralize free radicals in the body.

Patient Assessment

Evaluation of a patient's nutritional needs through history and physical examination.

Cultural Dietary Practices

Food preferences and dietary habits influenced by cultural or religious beliefs.

Enteral Feeding

Feeding via a tube directly into the stomach or intestines.

Sodium Restriction

Limiting sodium intake, often necessary for patients with hypertension.

Psychological Stress

Mental strain that can affect eating habits and nutritional intake.

Bacterial Flora

Microorganisms in the intestines that assist with digestion and vitamin production.