Unit 5 - Nutrition

Describe the relationship between what we consume and our health

The food we consume provide our bodies with the nutrients and energy needed to function properly. A balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. On the other hand, consuming too much processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats can increase the risk of these diseases.

Identify the macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats)

The three macronutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Identify the component parts of each macronutrient (amino acids, fatty acids, etc.)

Carbs: Carbs are broken down into simple sugars called glucose.

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Lipids (fats): fats are broken down into fatty acids

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Proteins: proteins into smaller molecules called amino acids.

what is the role of carbs in healthy body function?

When glucose is transformed into ATP this energy is used to: send impulses along nerves cells (muscles and neurons), transport molecules into and out of cells, assemble proteins, DNA, and other cell functions

what is the role of lipids (fats) in healthy body function?

Lipids also known as fats are an important part of a healthy diet. The body uses lipids as an energy store, as insulation and to make cell membranes.

what is the role of proteins in healthy body function?

They are one of the three main food groups and are needed by the body for cell growth and repair. They are also used to make enzymes, hormones, and other molecules.

Distinguish between the functions of each of the macronutrients

In summary, carbohydrates provide energy, proteins are important for growth and repair, and fats provide energy and aid in vitamin and mineral absorption.

Identify healthy sources of each of the macronutrients

* Carbohydrates: Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and low-fat dairy products.
* Proteins: fish, meat, eggs, milk, and cheese.
* Fats: Avocado, nuts, seeds, olive oil, fatty fish, and chocolate.

Compare and contrast the molecular characteristics of the three types of fat

Comparing the three types of fat we can say that saturated fat has a single bond, unsaturated has a double bond and the position of the hydrogen is at the same side, and lastly, trans fat does have a double bond although the position of the hydrogen is in the diagonal.

Describe the role of enzymes in digestion

The stomach is filled with gastric acid and enzymes. Pepsin is the enzyme that will break down into amino acids.

Outline the functions of each types of enzymes in the specific macronutrient

enzymes for proteins: proteins are made of amino acids. Our stomach contains pepsin, the enzyme that will break down proteins.

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enzymes for lipids: lipids are made of glycerol and fatty acid. Our small intestine contains lipase, the enzyme that will break down lipids.

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enzymes for carbs: are of starch. In our mouth, the saliva contains amalyse, the enzyme that will break down starch into maltose.

What is an enzyme?

An enzyme is a protein that acts as a catalyst, having the function to speed up a chemical reaction

How does enzyme work?

Each enzyme has an active site that is specific to each substrate

What is the active site?

The **active site** is the place where the substrate (carbohydrate, lipids, proteins etc) will be broken down into smaller molecules

what is the substrate?

The **Substrate** is the large molecule that will be broken in the small molecules

Common things of enzymes

* Each enzyme has an active site.
* Enzymes are very specific
* Enzymes are recycled

What are the 3 examples of enzymes and where are they found?

Pepsin → found in the stomach

Amalyse → found in the mouth

Lipase → found in the small intestine

What is the process for carbs?

Substrate: starch

complex: starch + amalyse

product: maltose

What is the process for proteins?

Substrate: protein

complex: pepsin + protein

product: amino acids

What is the process for lipids?

Substrate: fat or lipids

complex: lipase + fat

product: fatty acids