Nutrition

Nutrients

Biochemicals essential for growth, development, activity, reproduction, lactation, health maintenance, and recovery from illness or injury.

Essential Nutrients

Nutrients that must be obtained through diet or supplementation because the body cannot synthesize them adequately.

Nonessential Nutrients

Nutrients that do not need to be acquired through dietary sources as they are sufficiently synthesized by the body.

Water

Accounts for 50% to 60% of an adult's total weight; essential for chemical reactions, digestion, absorption, circulation, and excretion.

Carbohydrates

Organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen; the most abundant source of calories.

Simple Carbohydrates

Sugars with little nutritional value, often found in soda and baked goods.

Complex Carbohydrates

Include fiber and starch; offer higher nutritional value found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and whole grains.

Proteins

Required for the formation of all body structures; classified as complete or incomplete based on amino acid composition.

Lipids (Fats)

Insoluble in water and blood; the most concentrated source of energy in the diet.

Saturated Fats

Contain more hydrogen, are mostly animal fats, solid at room temperature, and tend to raise serum cholesterol.

Unsaturated Fats

Contain less hydrogen, are mostly vegetable-based, liquid at room temperature, and tend to lower serum cholesterol.

Vitamins

Organic compounds needed by the body in small amounts; classified as water-soluble or fat-soluble.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

Include vitamins C and B complex; not stored by the body and are excreted in urine.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Include vitamins A, D, E, and K; stored in the liver and fatty tissue, and can be toxic in excessive amounts.

Minerals

Inorganic elements found in all body fluids and tissues; provide structure and help regulate body processes.

Digestion

The process in which food is broken down, primarily occurs in the small intestine for fats and aided by water.

Absorption

The process where vitamins are absorbed through the intestinal wall directly into the bloodstream.

Metabolism

The chemical processes in the body that vitamins are essential for, including the metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.

Energy Expenditure

The sum of physical activity and basal metabolism.

MyPlate

A dietary guideline designed to help consumers make healthier food choices.

Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs)

Definitions of the amounts of energy, nutrients, and other dietary components needed.

Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs)

Specific recommendations for daily nutrient intake.

Infants (0-12 months)

During this stage, infants experience rapid growth; breastfeeding is recommended.

Toddlers/Preschoolers (1-5 years)

Growth rate slows; erratic eating patterns and picky eating are common.

Adolescents (11-18 years)

Experience a growth spurt during puberty.

Older Adults (65+)

Often have a lower Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) and may need to reduce caloric intake.

High Fiber Diet

Encourages increased intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fluids.

Clear Liquid Diet

Provides fluids, calories, and electrolytes while minimizing digestive stimulation.

Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN)

Bypasses the GI tract to provide nutrients via IV therapy.

Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Provides federal grants for supplemental foods and nutrition education to low-income women and children.

Food Stamps (SNAP)

Government-issued vouchers exchangeable for food, income-based.

American Diabetes Association (ADA)

Focuses on preventing diabetes, providing education, and improving the lives of those affected.

American Heart Association (AHA)

Provides education on healthy living and nutrition support.