Transcript NOTE: kcal=calorie (energy value of food)

Nutrients!
Nutrition 120
You are what you Eat!!

Is this statement true? Explain…

Food is your body’s fuel.

When you eat, your body breaks
down food into simpler elements that
are used to build, repair and maintain
body cells.
What is a Nutrient?

Nutrients (from food) are your body’s
source of fuel and building materials.

The six nutrients:
Carbohydrates
 Fats
 Protein

Vitamins
 Minerals
 Water

Nutrients

Each nutrient has a SPECIFIC JOB to
perform in the body and is VITAL to
good health.

Without adequate amounts of each,
health problems result.
Break it Down…

During the digestive process, most nutrients are
absorbed through the walls of the SMALL
INTESTINE into the circulatory (BLOOD) or
lymphatic systems.

Alcohol (7kcal/g) and other drugs can be absorbed
in the mouth or stomach.

Once nutrients are digested and absorbed, the
circulatory system carries nutrients to individual
cells.
Lining of the small intestine
Metabolism

All the chemical changes that occur as cells
produce energy and materials needed to sustain
life is called METABOLISM.

Through metabolism, cells break down some
nutrients to release energy as ATP (immediate
energy used in our muscles).

When we require energy, CHEMICAL RXNS BREAK
DOWN ATP to release energy.
Metabolism

Every cell makes ATP to help meet your energy
needs.

Chemical reactions that occur in the cell provide
ATP, BUT in the process produce waste.

Waste leaves the body through the kidneys, lungs
and skin (all act like a filter system).
Functions of Nutrients

Build & Repair body tissues (*prenatal,
infancy, adolescence).

Regulate all body processes (digestion,
absorption, metabolism, acid/base balance)

Provide energy (mainly carbs/fats);
proteins can – but are preferably used for
other vital functions.
There are 6 Nutrients your
Body Needs!
NOTE: kcal=calorie (energy value of food)

Carbohydrates (provides energy at 4kcal/g)

Proteins (provides energy at 4 kcal/g)

Fats (provides energy at 9 kcal/g)

Vitamins (no energy provided – help to release energy)

Minerals (no energy provided – help to release energy)

Water (no energy provided – help to release energy)

Do you remember what else gives you energy – but we do
not recommend…..