Exam 3 nutrition: Bone Health & Body Defense

What nutrients are important for bone health?

Vitamin D & K, magnesium, phosphorus, and calcium

What is the most abundant mineral in the body?

Calcium

What does calcium do?

Builds strong bones and teeth and helps muscles and nerves work

What helps your body absorb calcium?

Vitamin D

What is osteoporosis?

A condition where bones become weak and fragile

What is osteopenia?

Lower-than-normal bone density, but not as severe as osteoporosis

What is Vitamin D made from in the body?

Cholesterol, with help from sunlight

Which organs activate Vitamin D?

The liver and kidneys

What does Vitamin D help regulate?

Calcium absorption and bone health

What is rickets?

A bone disease in children caused by Vitamin D deficiency

What is osteomalacia?

Softening of the bones in adults, often due to Vitamin D deficiency

What is phosphorus important for?

Bones, cartilage, DNA, RNA, cell membranes, and energy metabolism

What does magnesium do?

Helps enzymes work and supports bones, muscles, and nerves

What does fluoride help with?

Strengthening tooth enamel and preventing cavities

What is fluorosis?

Too much fluoride can cause staining or pitting of teeth

Which vitamins are important for antioxidant protection?

Vitamins E and C, and beta-carotene (a form of Vitamin A).

What does Vitamin E do?

Protects cell membranes from damage caused by free radicals.

What are good sources of Vitamin E?

Oils and nuts, especially almonds.

What does Vitamin C do?

Acts as an antioxidant and supports body defense

What disease can Vitamin C deficiency cause?

Scurvy

Who needs more Vitamin C?

Smokers have a higher recommended intake.

What are two forms of Vitamin A?

Beta-carotene from plants and retinol from animal foods.

What is beta-carotene?

A plant-based precursor that the body can turn into Vitamin A.

What is retinol?

Preformed Vitamin A found in animal foods.

What is Vitamin A important for?

Vision, growth, and development.

What is an early sign of Vitamin A deficiency?

Night blindness.