Introduction to Human Nutrition: Macronutrients

Vocabulary flashcards from the lecture on human nutrition focusing on macronutrients and their roles.

Nutrition

The process of providing or obtaining the food necessary for health and growth.

Macronutrients

Nutrients required in large amounts for energy and metabolic processes, including carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Glycemic Index (GI)

A measure of how quickly foods cause blood glucose levels to rise.

Monosaccharides

The simplest form of carbohydrates, consisting of single sugar molecules like glucose and fructose.

Disaccharides

Carbohydrates composed of two monosaccharide units, such as sucrose and lactose.

Polysaccharides

Carbohydrates that consist of long chains of monosaccharide units; examples include starch and cellulose.

Essential Amino Acids

Amino acids that the body cannot synthesize and must be obtained from the diet.

Lipids

Fats and fat-like substances essential for many bodily functions including energy storage and cellular structure.

Triacylglycerols (TAGS)

A type of fat composed of three fatty acids linked to a glycerol molecule.

Lipoproteins

Particles that transport lipids in the bloodstream, including chylomicrons and LDL.

Fatty Acids

Building blocks of fats, which can be saturated or unsaturated, depending on the presence of double bonds.

Soluble Fiber

Dietary fiber found in foods like oats and beans that helps to lower cholesterol levels.

Insoluble Fiber

Dietary fiber that does not dissolve in water; promotes digestive health by adding bulk to the stool.

Amino Acids

Organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, consisting of an amino group, carboxyl group, and unique side chain.

Protein Digestion

The process of breaking down proteins into amino acids through various enzymes in the digestive system.

Cholesterol

A type of sterol important for cell membrane structure and hormone production, but excessive levels may lead to heart disease.

Vitamin D

A fat-soluble vitamin that is important for bone health and calcium absorption.

Scurvy

A disease caused by a deficiency of Vitamin C, leading to symptoms like gum disease and weakness.

Beri Beri

A disease resulting from thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency, affecting the cardiovascular and nervous systems.