NUTRITION – CONCISE FINAL EXAM NOTES
Nutrition (Definition)
Nutrition is the science that deals with intake, digestion, absorption, utilization and
metabolism of nutrients required for growth, maintenance and reproduction.
� Nutrients
Nutrients are chemical substances required by the body to:
Provide energy
Build and repair body tissues
Regulate body processes
� Classification of Nutrients
Carbohydrates
Proteins
Fats
Vitamins
Minerals
Water
� Functions of Nutrition
Provides energy for body activities
Supports growth and development
Maintains body tissues
Improves immunity
Helps in reproduction and lactation
� Carbohydrates
Definition:
Carbohydrates are energy-giving nutrients composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen.
Types:
Simple carbohydrates (glucose, fructose)
Complex carbohydrates (starch, cellulose)
Functions:
Main source of energy
Helps in fat metabolism
Prevents protein breakdown
� Proteins
Definition:
Proteins are body-building nutrients made of amino acids.
Functions:
Growth and repair of tissues
Formation of enzymes and hormones
Boosts immunity
Protein Deficiency:
Kwashiorkor
Marasmus
� Fats
Definition:
Fats are concentrated sources of energy.
Functions:
Provide 2.25× more energy than carbohydrates
Help in absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)
Provide insulation and protection
� Vitamins
Definition:
Vitamins are organic compounds required in small amounts for normal body functions.
Types:
Fat-soluble: A, D, E, K
Water-soluble: B-complex, C
Example Deficiencies:
Vitamin A → Night blindness
Vitamin D → Rickets
Vitamin C → Scurvy
� Minerals
Definition:
Minerals are inorganic elements required for body structure and regulation.
Important Minerals:
Calcium: Bones and teeth
Iron: Hemoglobin formation
Phosphorus: Energy metabolism
Iodine: Thyroid function
� Water
Importance:
Regulates body temperature
Helps in digestion and excretion
Maintains blood volume
� Balanced Diet
Definition:
A balanced diet contains all nutrients in proper proportions to meet body needs.
Importance:
Prevents nutritional deficiencies
Maintains health and productivity
Supports growth and immunity
� IMPORTANT TECHNICAL EXAM QUESTIONS
Q1. Why proteins are called body-building nutrients?
Answer:
Proteins help in growth, repair and maintenance of body tissues and are essential for
enzymes, hormones and immunity.
Q2. Differentiate between fat-soluble and water-soluble vitamins.
Answer:
Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the body and excess may cause toxicity, while water-soluble
vitamins are not stored and excess is excreted in urine.
Q3. Explain the importance of carbohydrates in animal nutrition.
Answer:
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy and help in fat metabolism and protein sparing.
Q4. What happens due to mineral deficiency?
Answer:
Mineral deficiency causes problems like weak bones, anemia, poor growth and metabolic
disorders.