(34) Course Introduction - Nutrition and Public Health

Energy-yielding nutrients

Nutrients that provide calories; includes carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Calorie

A unit of energy; synonymous with energy in nutrition.

Nutrient-dense foods

Foods that are high in nutrients relative to their calorie content.

Calorie-dense foods

Foods that are high in calories relative to their nutrient content.

Malnutrition

Bad nutrition; can refer to either undernutrition or overnutrition.

SAD diet

Standard American Diet characterized by high calorie intake and low nutrient density.

Micronutrients

Nutrients required in smaller amounts; includes vitamins and minerals.

Water

The most important nutrient essential for survival and overall health.

Daily Reference Intake (DRI)

Guidelines that establish the daily intake levels for essential nutrients.

Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)

The daily dietary intake level of a nutrient considered sufficient for most healthy individuals.

Appetite

The psychological desire to eat, which can exist independent of hunger.

Caloric content of lipids

Nine calories per gram.

Caloric content of carbohydrates and proteins

Four calories per gram.

Major minerals

Essential minerals needed in larger amounts for body functions.

Trace minerals

Essential minerals required in smaller amounts.

Fat-soluble vitamins

Vitamins that dissolve in fats, including A, D, E, and K.

Water-soluble vitamins

Vitamins that dissolve in water, including all B vitamins and vitamin C.

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Dietary Guidelines

Recommendations published every five years for healthful eating practices.

Chronic illness

Long-term health conditions that can be affected by diet and nutrition.

Preventative medical model

An approach focusing on preventing diseases rather than treating them after they occur.

Ultra-processed foods

Foods that are highly processed and engineered to enhance appeal, often leading to increased cravings.

Nutrient recommendations

Guidelines for dietary intake that vary based on factors such as age, sex, and health status.