Nutrition Module 8 Lecture Notes

Solvent and transport medium carrying nutrients and waste

Water function

Helps regulate blood volume and blood pressure

Water function

Regulates body temperature through sweating

Water function

Protects tissues and provides lubrication

Water function

Loss of fluid through urine, sweat, and exercise

Sensible fluid loss

Loss of fluid not perceived, such as through breathing

Insensible fluid loss

Water needs vary based on age, size, health, and environment

Hydration requirements

Even small water loss (~2% body weight) can impair function

Dehydration effects

Fluid inside cells making up most body water

Intracellular fluid

Fluid outside cells including blood and interstitial fluid

Extracellular fluid

Electrolytes dissociate into charged particles in solution

Electrolytes

Maintain osmotic pressure and fluid balance

Electrolyte function

Enable nerve impulses and sensory responses

Electrolyte function (nerve)

Trigger muscle contraction and relaxation

Electrolyte function (muscle)

High sodium intake linked to hypertension

Sodium risk

Major intracellular electrolyte regulating muscle and nerve function

Potassium

Excess potassium causes abnormal heart rhythms

Hyperkalemia

Low potassium leads to muscle weakness and arrhythmias

Hypokalemia

High blood pressure increases risk of heart disease and stroke

Hypertension

Lifestyle changes reduce blood pressure (diet, exercise, less sodium)

Hypertension management

Blood transports oxygen, nutrients, wastes, and heat

Blood function

Red blood cells carry oxygen

Erythrocytes

White blood cells support immune system

Leukocytes

Platelets help blood clot

Platelets