Nutrients

Nutrients

Elements in Living Things

  • Atoms (elements) are the building blocks of everything, including living and non-living things.

  • Key elements in living things: Carbon (18%), Hydrogen (9%), and Oxygen (65%).

  • These elements form larger "Biological Molecules" like carbohydrates, lipids (fats), and proteins.

Organic vs. Inorganic

  • Organic molecules contain carbon atoms.

Carbohydrates

  • Function: Provide quick energy for metabolism.

  • Forms: Sugars (glucose, sucrose), starch, and fiber.

Lipids (Fats)

  • Function: Long-term storage of chemical energy.

  • Forms: Saturated and unsaturated fats.

  • Saturated fats can lead to fatty deposits in blood vessels.

  • Unsaturated fats are less likely to clog arteries.

Proteins

  • Functions: Growth/repair, enzymes, hormones.

  • Sources: Meat, eggs, legumes, dairy.

Calories

  • Energy supply for bodily functions.

  • Derived from nutrients.

Enzymes

  • Special proteins that speed up reactions.

  • Example: Lactase (breaks down lactose).

Inorganic Substances

  • Do not contain carbon.

  • Simple minerals or elements.

  • Humans need ~22 mineral elements.

Nutrient Tracking

  • Nutrient needs vary based on age, gender, and activity level.

Nutrients in Plants

  • Plants create their own biological molecules through photosynthesis.

  • Plants need about 18 mineral elements.

  • Energy source: Sun à Glucose.

  • Carbon source: Carbon dioxide from the air.

  • Minerals/elements source: Absorbed from the soil.

Minerals for Plants

  • NPK system: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K).

Fertilizers

  • Increased farming efficiency and stabilized food supplies.

Overfertilization

  • Excess fertilizer can lead to eutrophication.

  • Eutrophication: excessive nutrients in water, leading to plant growth and oxygen depletion.

Land Use for Food Production

  • Significant portion of habitable land used for agriculture.

Diets

  • Omnivore diets can require significant resources.

  • Vegetarian diets can be more efficient but may lead to nutrient deficiencies.

Nutrient Needs & Acquisition

  • Humans need carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

  • Plants need macronutrients (N, P, K) and micronutrients.

  • Humans obtain nutrients through eating/digestion (heterotrophs).

  • Plants absorb nutrients through roots and photosynthesis (autotrophs).

Functions of Nutrients

  • Carbohydrates: Quick energy.

  • Proteins: Tissue building and repair.

  • Fats: Long-term energy storage.

  • Minerals support plant structure and health.

Absorption

  • Humans: Nutrients absorbed through intestinal walls.

  • Plants: Absorb minerals/water through roots, produce food through photosynthesis.