BIOL 1050: Vitamins, Minerals, and Nutrition Concepts

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins, major minerals, trace minerals, deficiency and toxicity conditions, and nutrition exam topics from BIOL 1050.

Thiamin

A water-soluble vitamin that forms a coenzyme involved in chemical reactions of energy metabolism, synthesizes RNA, DNA, and neurotransmitters, and assists in breaking down proteins and carbohydrates.

Beriberi

A thiamin deficiency disease characterized by muscle weakness, loss of appetite, nerve degeneration, and sometimes edema.

Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

A thiamin deficiency condition associated with heavy alcohol usage.

Riboflavin

A water-soluble vitamin that forms a coenzyme in energy metabolism, contributes to growth, development, and drug/nutrient metabolism, and exerts an antioxidant role by supporting glutathione peroxidase.

Ariboflavinosis

A riboflavin deficiency condition characterized by inflammation of the tongue, dermatitis, eye disorders, sensitivity to the sun, and confusion.

Angular Cheilitis

An inflammation at the corners of the mouth caused by riboflavin deficiency that can result in painful cracking.

Niacin

A water-soluble vitamin that forms a coenzyme in energy metabolism, helps maintain antioxidant systems, and contributes to genome integrity and gene expression regulation; excess causes headaches, itching, and increased blood flow to the skin.

Pellagra

A niacin deficiency disease characterized by poor appetite, weight loss, weakness, and the 4 D's: Dementia, Diarrhea, Dermatitis, and Death.

Pyridoxine (Vitamin B-6)

A water-soluble vitamin that forms a coenzyme in energy metabolism, regulates homocysteine metabolism, and contributes to neurotransmitter synthesis; toxicity causes nerve damage.

Folate (Vitamin B-9)

A water-soluble vitamin that participates in DNA formation of new cells, regulates homocysteine metabolism alongside vitamins B-6 and B-12, and aids neurotransmitter formation; deficiency causes macrocytic anemia and neural tube defects in fetuses.

Cobalamin (Vitamin B-12)

A water-soluble vitamin that works with folate in DNA synthesis, regulates homocysteine metabolism, and maintains the myelin sheath that insulates neurons.

Pernicious Anemia

A macrocytic anemia caused by the malabsorption of Vitamin B-12, presenting with symptoms such as a sore mouth, depression, back pain, and severe nerve degeneration.

Biotin (Vitamin B-7)

A water-soluble vitamin that forms an energy metabolism coenzyme and plays a role in gene expression; deficiency leads to hair loss, scaly skin inflammation, brittle nails, and muscle pain.

Pantothenic Acid

A water-soluble vitamin that forms an energy metabolism coenzyme and contributes to fatty acid synthesis; deficiency causes gastrointestinal distress and neurological burning sensations in the hands and feet.

Choline

A water-soluble compound that acts as a precursor for cell membrane phospholipids and betaine, aids lipid transport, and plays a critical role in nerve function and brain development; toxicity causes fishy body odor and low blood pressure.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

A water-soluble vitamin that assists in collagen formation, functions as an antioxidant by donating and accepting electrons, enhances iron absorption, and supports proper immune function.

Scurvy

A Vitamin C deficiency disease characterized by bleeding gums, tooth loss, bruising, and scaly skin.

Vitamin A

A fat-soluble vitamin that maintains epithelial cell linings in the lungs, intestines, bladder, eyes, and urinary tract, assists eye cells, and promotes growth; excess retinoids cause birth defects and liver toxicity, while excess carotenoids cause hypercarotenemia.

Xerophthalmia

A Vitamin A deficiency condition characterized by hardening of the cornea and a dry eye surface.

Hyperkeratosis

A Vitamin A deficiency condition in which patches of skin become tougher than usual.

Vitamin D

A fat-soluble vitamin that maintains blood calcium levels, regulates bone deposition and withdrawal, regulates cell growth, and may help prevent hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

Rickets

A Vitamin D deficiency condition occurring in children that is characterized by the bowing of bones.

Osteomalacia

A Vitamin D deficiency condition characterized by a softening of the bones in adults.

Vitamin E

A fat-soluble vitamin that serves as an antioxidant by donating electrons to stabilize free radicals, helps prevent oxidative damage diseases, and supports muscle, central nervous system, and immune function.

Hemolysis

The destruction of red blood cells, which occurs as a deficiency symptom of Vitamin E.

Vitamin K

A fat-soluble vitamin that serves as a coenzyme adding $CO_2$ molecules to proteins, plays a vital role in blood clotting, contributes to bone mineralization, and reduces abnormal calcification.

Calcium (Ca)

A major mineral that plays a role in bone repair and maintenance, normal muscle/nerve function, enzyme/hormone metabolism regulation, blood pressure maintenance, and cellular differentiation.

Tetany

A calcium deficiency condition characterized by muscle tension and involuntary twitching.

Phosphorus (P)

A major mineral that forms hydroxyapatite in teeth and bones, serves as a component of RNA, DNA, ATP, and phospholipids, and regulates enzyme activity.

Hydroxyapatite

A structural component of teeth and bones that contains phosphorus.

Magnesium (Mg)

A major mineral that regulates nerve, muscle, and heart function, participates in blood clotting, aids Vitamin D synthesis in the liver, and stabilizes calcium in tooth enamel to resist decay.

Sodium (Na)

A mineral that regulates fluid balance, conducts nerve impulse transmissions, drives muscle contraction, and aids nutrient absorption; excess intake is linked to hypertension and heart disease.

Hyponatremia

A condition associated with sodium deficiency that can lead to muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, shock, and coma.

Potassium (Kalium)

A mineral that regulates fluid balance, transmits nerve impulses, and controls muscle contractions; deficiency leads to hypokalemia, while toxicity causes hyperkalemia.

Chloride (Cl)

A mineral that regulates fluid balance, maintains acid-base balance, and is involved in nerve impulse transmissions; makes up 60% of table salt.

Iron (Fe)

A trace mineral that forms hemoglobin and myoglobin to transport oxygen and remove carbon dioxide, participates in energy production enzymes, and assists liver drug detox and collagen synthesis.

Iron-Deficiency Anemia

A condition resulting from iron deficiency characterized by low hemoglobin count, cold hands/feet, pale skin, fatigue/weakness, brittle nails, and difficulty concentrating.

Zinc (Zn)

A trace mineral required by more than 200 enzymes, facilitating growth, taste, smell, antioxidant defense, DNA synthesis, protein metabolism, and immune function; severe deficiency leads to dwarfism.

Iodine (I)

A trace mineral required for synthesizing thyroid hormone (which regulates energy metabolism) and supporting infant skeletal and nervous system development.

Goiter

An enlargement of the thyroid gland that occurs as a symptom of both iodine deficiency and iodine toxicity.

Fluoride

A trace mineral that helps prevent dental cavities by stimulating enamel remineralization and inhibiting demineralization; toxicity causes dental fluorosis.

Selenium

A trace mineral that supports the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase, maintains cell membrane integrity, aids thyroid hormone production enzymes, and assists DNA synthesis.

Copper

A trace mineral acting as a cofactor for enzymes that cross-link connective tissue proteins, makes iron available for red blood cell formation, and assists in blood clotting.

Chromium (Cr)

A trace mineral that enhances insulin function, helps regulate blood glucose, and may reduce oxidative stress; deficiency can lead to impaired glucose levels, high blood lipids, and Type 2 diabetes.

Blood Pressure Categories

The clinical classifications determined by systolic and diastolic pressures as listed in the BIOL 1050 Exam 2 guide: normal, elevated, Stage 1 Hypertension, Stage 2 Hypertension, and Hypertension Crisis.

DASH Diet

A dietary lifestyle approach highlighted in lowering blood pressure:
Diet rich in
 Fruits (potassium/magnesium)
 Vegetables (potassium/magnesium)
 Low-fat dairy products (Calcium)
Reduced saturated, total fats, Sodium Intake
o Sea Salt vs Table Salt
o Sodium Free Flavoring Options

Densitometry

measurement of body density by underwater weighing.

density= body mass kg/body volume L; it helps assess body fat and composition for health evaluations. (most accurate).

Energy Balance

The relationship between the number of calories consumed and the number of calories the body uses.

Energy Intake

The calories obtained by the body from foods and beverages.

Energy Output (Energy Expenditure)

The calories the body uses to maintain life and perform daily physical activities.

Positive Energy Balance

A state in which energy intake exceeds energy output, causing the body to store excess energy, which over time may lead to weight gain.

Negative Energy Balance

A state in which energy output exceeds energy intake, causing the body to utilize stored energy, which over time may lead to weight loss.

Balanced Energy Balance

A state in which energy intake and energy output are approximately equal, resulting in body weight tending to remain relatively stable over time.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

The energy required to maintain essential body functions at rest, including breathing, circulation, and body temperature regulation, which generally accounts for the largest portion of daily energy expenditure.

Thermic Effect of Food (TEF)

The energy required to digest, absorb, transport, and metabolize nutrients consumed from food.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A screening measure comparing a person's weight to their height, calculated as $???=\frac{\text{Weight in kilograms}}{(\text{Height in meters})^2}$ or $???=\frac{\text{Weight in pounds} \times703}{(\text{Height in inches})^2}$ .

Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)

A method that estimates body composition by measuring the body's electrical resistance to a small, painless electrical current.

Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA)

A body composition assessment technique that utilizes low-dose X-rays to estimate fat mass, lean tissue, and bone mineral content.

Essential Fat

The minimal fat required for normal physiological functions—including cell structure, hormone production, and organ protection—estimated at approximately $2\text{--}5\%$ in males and $10\text{--}13\%$ in females.

Storage Fat

Fat stored in adipose tissue that serves as energy reserves, insulation, and physical cushioning for the body.

Subcutaneous Fat

Adipose tissue stored directly beneath the skin that provides insulation, energy storage, and mechanical protection.

Visceral Fat

Adipose tissue stored deep inside the abdominal cavity around internal organs, excess amounts of which are associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Android Pattern

An apple-shaped fat distribution pattern where adipose tissue is predominantly stored around the abdomen, associated with higher metabolic and cardiovascular risks.

Gynoid Pattern

A pear-shaped fat distribution pattern where adipose tissue is stored predominantly around the hips and thighs, generally associated with lower metabolic risk than abdominal fat.

Phytochemicals

Naturally occurring chemical compounds found in plants that may provide health benefits beyond basic essential nutrients. They health promoting compounds found in plant-foods.

they stimulate the immune system, reduce blood inflammation and blood pressure, and prevent DNA damage.

Carotenoids

A family of plant pigments with antioxidant properties found in colorful vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach, some of which (such as beta-carotene) can be converted into vitamin A.

Lycopene

A carotenoid phytochemical with antioxidant activity found in red and pink plant foods including tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit.

Flavonoids

A class of plant compounds found in berries, tea, cocoa, and citrus fruits that may influence inflammation and cell signaling pathways.

Anthocyanins

Plant pigments with antioxidant activity that provide blue, purple, and red coloring to foods such as blueberries, blackberries, and purple cabbage.

Sulforaphane

A phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts that may activate cellular defense and detoxification pathways.

Organosulfur Compounds

Sulfur-containing phytochemicals found in allium vegetables such as garlic and onions that may influence cellular processes and provide protective health effects.

Isoflavones

Plant-derived compounds found in soybeans, tofu, and soy milk that can interact with estrogen receptors in the body.

Antioxidant

A substance that helps protect cells from oxidative damage by neutralizing certain reactive molecules or limiting oxidation reactions.

Free Radicals

Highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons that can damage cellular components when they accumulate excessively in the body.

Oxidative Stress

A physiological state that occurs when the production of reactive oxygen species overwhelms the body's antioxidant defenses.

Vitamin C

A water-soluble vitamin with antioxidant properties that protects cells from oxidative damage, supports collagen formation, and contributes to immune function.

Vitamin E

A fat-soluble antioxidant vitamin that protects cellular membranes from oxidative damage.

Selenium

An essential trace mineral that functions as a cofactor for antioxidant enzymes, notably glutathione peroxidases.

Adequate Intake (AI)

A dietary reference intake recommendation applied when scientific evidence is insufficient to calculate an Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) and Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA).

Dehydration

A state of body-water deficit that occurs when fluid output exceeds total fluid intake.

Fluid Volume Deficit (Hypovolemia)

A condition characterized by a significant decrease in circulating blood and fluid volume, commonly resulting from water and salt loss through vomiting, diarrhea, bleeding, or excessive sweating.

Electrolytes

Minerals that dissolve in body fluids to form electrically charged ions, regulating osmotic pressure, fluid balance, and neuromuscular function.

Sodium

The major positively charged electrolyte (cation) in extracellular fluid responsible for regulating extracellular fluid volume and vascular function.

Potassium

The major positively charged electrolyte (cation) in intracellular fluid responsible for regulating internal cell volume, nerve transmission, muscle contraction, and blood pressure.

Cation

A positively charged ion in an electrolyte solution.

Hard Water

Water that contains relatively high concentrations of dissolved minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium.

Blood Pressure

The hydrostatic force exerted by circulating blood against the internal walls of arterial blood vessels, recorded in $\text{mm Hg}$.

Systolic Pressure

The top number in a blood pressure measurement, reflecting maximum arterial pressure when the heart contracts and pumps blood.

Diastolic Pressure

The bottom number in a blood pressure measurement, reflecting arterial pressure when the heart muscle relaxes between contractions.

Primary Hypertension

A chronic elevation of blood pressure that lacks a single identifiable medical etiology and develops from complex interactions of genetics, lifestyle, and environment (also termed essential hypertension).

Secondary Hypertension

High blood pressure that directly results from an identifiable underlying cause, such as renal disease, endocrine disorders, sleep apnea, or specific medications.

DASH Diet

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension; an evidence-based eating pattern high in potassium, calcium, magnesium, and fiber from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy while restricting sodium and saturated fats.

antioxidant

a substance that helps protect cells from oxidative damage by neutralizing certain reactive molecules or limiting oxidation.