Nutrition and Health Education

These flashcards cover key concepts from nutrition and health education, focusing on the roles of medical professionals, dietary guidelines, and the importance of nutrients.

Medical Assistant (MA)

A professional who acts as a liaison between the healthcare provider and the patient, assisting with inquiries regarding diet, exercise, and overall health.

Registered Dietitian

A professional who specializes in nutrition and diet planning, often helping patients create meal plans based on their individual health conditions.

Metabolism

The process by which the body converts food into energy and utilizes nutrients for growth and maintenance of cells.

Calories

A unit of heat that measures the energy provided by foods, vital for sustaining bodily functions.

Macronutrients

Nutrients required in large amounts: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, which provide energy and support bodily functions.

Micronutrients

Vitamins and minerals needed in smaller amounts for various bodily functions and maintenance of health.

Vitamins

Organic substances found in food essential for growth and health; some vitamins are fat-soluble while others are water-soluble.

Food Allergies

Adverse immune responses triggered by specific foods, which can lead to serious health complications such as anaphylaxis in severe cases.

Therapeutic Diets

Dietary plans designed to manage specific health conditions, like diabetic, low calorie, or low fat diets.

Choose My Plate

A nutritional guide that provides personalized dietary recommendations based on age, gender, and activity level.

Fiber

A type of carbohydrate that aids in digestion and prevents constipation; found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Dietary Guidelines

Recommendations for healthy eating patterns to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall health.

Weight Control

Managing body weight through diet and exercise to prevent obesity and related health issues.

Gluten-Free Diet

A dietary approach that eliminates gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, often necessary for individuals with celiac disease.

Meal Supplements

Nutritional products like protein drinks or powders that provide additional nutrients to individuals who may struggle to meet dietary needs.

Nutrient Density

The ratio of essential nutrients to the number of calories in a food, highlighting the nutritional value.

Eating Disorders

Psychological conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits that negatively impact physical and mental health, including anorexia and bulimia.

Hydration

The process of providing adequate fluids to the body, essential for maintaining various bodily functions.

Balanced Diet

A diet that includes a variety of foods in the right proportions to provide the nutrients necessary for good health.