Long Answer Questions
1️⃣ Explain the different types of nutrients and their functions.
Answer:
Nutrients are essential substances that our body needs for energy, growth, and overall health. They are classified into six main types:
Carbohydrates: They are the main source of energy for the body. Foods like rice, bread, and potatoes are rich in carbohydrates.
Proteins: These are important for growth, repair of body tissues, and muscle development. Protein-rich foods include eggs, fish, and beans.
Fats: Fats provide energy and help in the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K. They also keep the body warm and protect organs. Sources include nuts, butter, and oils.
Vitamins: These help in various body functions like immunity, vision, and bone strength. For example, Vitamin C boosts immunity, and Vitamin D helps in calcium absorption.
Minerals: These help in bone formation, blood production, and overall body functions. Examples include calcium for bones and iron for red blood cells.
Water: It is essential for digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation. It also helps remove waste from the body.
Each of these nutrients plays a vital role in keeping us healthy and active.
2️⃣ Describe the importance of a balanced diet with examples.
Answer:
A balanced diet is a diet that includes all essential nutrients in the right proportions to maintain good health. It provides the body with the necessary energy, helps in growth, and prevents diseases.
Energy Supply: Carbohydrates like rice and wheat provide the required energy for daily activities.
Body Growth and Repair: Proteins from foods like eggs and milk help in tissue repair and muscle growth.
Protection Against Diseases: Vitamins and minerals, found in fruits and vegetables, boost immunity and keep the body strong.
Healthy Digestion: Roughage (fiber) from whole grains and vegetables aids digestion and prevents constipation.
Water for Hydration: Drinking enough water helps regulate body temperature and removes toxins.
A balanced diet ensures that the body functions properly and stays disease-free.
3️⃣ What are deficiency diseases? Name some common deficiency diseases and their causes.
Answer:
Deficiency diseases occur when the body does not get enough essential nutrients over a long period. Different nutrients are required for different body functions, and their absence can lead to specific diseases.
Some common deficiency diseases and their causes are:
Scurvy: Caused by a deficiency of Vitamin C, leading to bleeding gums and weakness.
Rickets: Due to a lack of Vitamin D, causing weak and deformed bones in children.
Anemia: Caused by iron deficiency, leading to fatigue and weakness.
Goiter: Due to a deficiency of iodine, causing swelling of the thyroid gland.
Kwashiorkor: Caused by severe protein deficiency, leading to swelling and muscle weakness.
Eating a nutritious diet can help prevent these diseases and maintain overall health.
4️⃣ How do minerals help our body? Name some important minerals and their functions.
Answer:
Minerals are essential nutrients that the body needs in small amounts to perform various functions. They help in bone formation, blood production, and nerve function.
Some important minerals and their functions are:
Calcium: Strengthens bones and teeth; found in milk and green leafy vegetables.
Iron: Helps in the production of red blood cells and prevents anemia; found in spinach and red meat.
Iodine: Essential for thyroid function and prevents goiter; found in iodized salt and seafood.
Phosphorus: Works with calcium to strengthen bones; found in dairy products and nuts.
Potassium: Helps in maintaining proper nerve function and muscle contractions; found in bananas and potatoes.
Minerals are crucial for maintaining good health and preventing various health issues.
5️⃣ What is the role of water in the human body?
Answer:
Water is an essential component of the human body and plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. It makes up about 60-70% of the body and is involved in various functions:
Digestion and Absorption: Water helps break down food and absorb nutrients in the digestive system.
Regulation of Body Temperature: It helps cool the body through sweating.
Transportation of Nutrients: Water carries essential nutrients and oxygen to different parts of the body.
Waste Removal: It helps in flushing out toxins and waste through urine and sweat.
Joint Lubrication: Water keeps joints and muscles flexible, reducing friction and preventing pain.
Drinking enough water every day is important to prevent dehydration and maintain proper body functions.
6️⃣ Why should we avoid eating too much junk food?
Answer:
Junk food includes fast food, sugary drinks, and processed snacks that are high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and salt but low in essential nutrients. Eating too much junk food can lead to several health problems:
Obesity: Junk food is high in calories and unhealthy fats, leading to weight gain.
Nutrient Deficiency: It lacks essential vitamins and minerals, which can lead to weakness and poor immunity.
Heart Diseases: High cholesterol and excess salt in junk food increase the risk of heart diseases.
Diabetes: Sugary foods and drinks raise blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes.
Digestive Issues: Lack of fiber in junk food can cause constipation and digestive problems.