Nutrients - Unit 2 Test

Vocabulary flashcards based on lecture notes about nutrition, macronutrients, micronutrients, digestion, and nutrient deficiencies.

Nutrition

The science of how the body uses food.

Calorie

A unit that measures how much energy a particular food provides to the body.

Empty Calories

From food and beverages that provide energy but offer little to no nutritional value.

Nutrient Dense

Food that is high in nutrients but relatively low in calories.

Essential Nutrient

A substance that the body needs to function properly and cannot produce in sufficient amounts.

Macronutrient

A type of nutrient required in large amounts in the diet.

Liver

Produces bile salts, which emulsify lipids, aiding their digestion and absorption.

Nutrient Deficiency

Involves an intake of nutrients that is lower than the estimated average requirement; can lead to increased risk of diseases.

Stomach

Mechanical digestion includes peristaltic mixing and propulsion.

Insoluble Fiber

Do not dissolve in water and are considered gut-healthy.

Basal Metabolism

The rate at which the body uses energy while at rest to maintain vital functions.

Small Intestine

Specialized tubular structure between the stomach and the colon that absorbs nutrients from food.

Soluble Fiber

Attracts water and slows down digestion; increases feeling of fullness.

Gallbladder

Small, pear-shaped organ that stores and releases bile.

Micronutrient

Essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs in very small amounts to support growth, development and overall health.

Fat

The most calorie-dense macronutrient.

Vitamin D

Helps with calcium absorption.

Iron

Essential for oxygen transport in the blood.

Vitamin A deficiency

A symptom is night blindness.

Vitamin B12

A water-soluble vitamin.

Iodine

Low intake can lead to Goiter.

% Daily Value on a nutrition label

Helps consumers compare products for nutrient content.

Small intestine

Most nutrient absorption takes place here.

Amylase

Helps digest carbohydrates.

Liver

Produces bile to aid in fat digestion.

Villi in the small intestine

Absorb nutrients

Amino acids

Are absorbed directly into the bloodstream.

Celiac disease

Affects absorption in the small intestine.

Lactose intolerance

Results from a deficiency of lactase enzyme.

Energy balance

Energy intake equals energy output.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

Energy used at rest for vital functions.

Factor increases a person's BMR

Increased muscle mass

Excess calorie intake over time

May lead to Weight gain.

The thermic effect of food

Energy required to digest, absorb, and process food