Human Nutrition: Diet
8.1 Diet
Balanced Diet
- Contains all essential nutrients in correct proportions.
- Includes: carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, vitamins, minerals, fibre, water.
Nutrients And Functions
| Nutrient | Sources | Function | Deficiency Disease |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Rice, bread, pasta | Energy | – |
| Proteins | Meat, fish, beans | Growth, repair, enzymes, hormones | Kwashiorkor (severe protein deficiency) |
| Lipids | Oil, butter, nuts | Energy store, insulation, membranes | – |
| Vitamin C | Citrus fruits | Collagen synthesis, wound healing | Scurvy (bleeding gums) |
| Vitamin D | Fish, eggs, sunlight | Absorb calcium, bone health | Rickets (weak bones) |
| Calcium | Milk, cheese, green veg | Bone + teeth strength | Rickets |
| Iron | Red meat, spinach | Haemoglobin production | Anaemia (tiredness) |
| Fibre | Vegetables, fruit, cereals | Aids peristalsis, prevents constipation | Constipation |
| Water | Drinks, fruits, vegetables | Transport, temperature regulation | Dehydration |
Written And Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia, World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions And 11 World Records For Educate A Change O Level And IGCSE Biology Full Scale Course
Concept Of A Balanced Diet
- Amount of each nutrient varies with:
- Age (children need more protein).
- Gender (pregnant women need more iron + calcium).
- Activity (athletes need more carbohydrates).
- Health condition (diabetics must control carbohydrate intake).
Deficiency Diseases Quick Recap
- Vitamin C → Scurvy.
- Vitamin D / Calcium → Rickets.
- Iron → Anaemia.
- Protein → Kwashiorkor.
Written And Compiled By Sir Hunain Zia, World Record Holder With 154 Total A Grades, 7 Distinctions And 11 World Records For Educate A Change O Level And IGCSE Biology Full Scale Course