How Nutrients Become You

Food, Nutrients, and Energy Six Nutrient Groups: Carbohydrates Fats Proteins Vitamins Minerals Water Each nutrient has a specific job that is vital to good health

The Functions of Nutrients Essential nutrients from food are used to: * build and repair body tissues -needed during periods of growth * regulate all body processes -digestion, metabolism, etc * provide energy -need energy for all of life’s processes

Chemistry of Nutrients Five of the basic nutrient groups are compounds: Carbohydrates Fats Proteins Vitamins Water Minerals are elements.

The Energy Value of Food The energy value of food is measured in units called kilocalories. 1 gram of carbohydrates = 4 kilocalories of energy 1 gram of fat = 9 kilocalories of energy 1 gram protein = 4 kilocalories of energy Water, vitamins, and minerals do not yield energy. The more calories in a food, the more energy it will provide.

The Digestion Process Digestion-the process by which your body breaks down food, and the nutrients in food, into simpler substances. 1.Mechanical-chewing In the Mouth Mastication or chewing is first step. Chew food well-it aids in digestion. Salivary glands – produce saliva a mixture of about 99% water plus a few chemicals. Keeps mouth moist, gives food taste, moistens, softens and dissolves food, helps cleanse teeth and neutralize mouth acids. 2. Chemical-breakdown of food into simpler compounds

Digestion As food is digested, it passes through a muscular tube leading from the mouth to the anus. This tube is called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract-Peristalisis Each section performs important functions.

Sections of the GI tract The mouth The esophagus The stomach The small intestine The large intestine

Functions of GI Tract In the Esophagus In the Stomach Passageway from the mouth to the stomach. Tube about 10 inches long Breathing automatically stops when you swallow to prevent choking. Squeezing motions in the esophagus called peristalsis moves the food to the stomach. In the Stomach Produces gastric juices to aid digestion. Gastric juices made of hydrochloric acid, digestive juices and mucus. Chyme –food and gastric juices combined. Stomach can hold about 1 quart of food. Food stays in stomach 2 to 3 hours.

Functions of GI Tract In the Small Intestine 95% of digestion occurs here. Has 3 sections: duodenum, jejunum, ileum. Is about 20 feet long and 1 inch in diameter. Takes about 5-14 hours for food to move from the mouth through small intestine. Pancreas, a gland behind the stomach aids the small intestine. Liver is involved in the chemical digestion in the small intestine with use of bile-breaks down fat.

Functions of GI Tract Large Intestine Food moves from small intestine to the large intestine (colon). Measure 5-6 feet when stretched. Main job is to reabsorb water, very little digestion. Chyme stays in large intestine 1-3 days before elimination. Solid waste called feces, leave the large intestine through the rectum and the body through the anus.

Absorption of Nutrients Absorption is the passage of nutrients from the digestive tract into the circulatory of lymphatic system. Some nutrients can dissolve in water. They are called water-soluble nutrients. Some nutrients can dissolve in fat. They are called fat-soluble nutrients.

Factors Affecting Digestion and Absorption Eating Habits Choose a nutritious diet that includes a wide range of foods. Take time to enjoy your food, no rushing to eat. Watch the make up of your food choices. High fat foods longer to digest. Foods high in carbs leave stomach faster. Be aware of the wholesomeness of your food. Spoiled and contaminated foods can cause intestinal problems. Emotions Reduce stress while eating Enjoyable environment helps. Food Allergies Food allergy is a reaction of the immune system to certain proteins found in food. Symptoms – vomiting, stomach pain, intestinal distress, skin rashes, swelling, and breathing problems. Food sensitivities - lactose intolerant Physical Activity Aids in digestion and metabolism Stimulates a healthy appetite and strengthens muscles of the internal organs.

Digestive Disorders Diarrhea Constipation Indigestion Heartburn Ulcer Causes food to move through digestive system too quickly for nutrients to be fully absorbed. Leads to a loss of body fluids Constipation Feces become hard in large intestine, making bowel movements painful. Caused by erratic eating habits, low fiber intake, lack of physical activity, drinking too little water. Indigestion Caused by stress, eating too much or too fast, or eating particular foods. Symptoms are gas, stomach cramps and nausea. Heartburn Caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. Known as reflux GERD Ulcer Open sore in the lining of the stomach or small intestine, caused by a bacterium. May be hereditary connection, stress, or excessive alcohol or aspirin use. Gallstones Small crystals that form from bile in the gallbladder. When these block the duct connecting the gallbladder to small intestine cause for great pain. May slow fat digestion and pools of fluid in the liver. Diverticulosis Abnormal pouches forming in the intestinal wall and become inflamed. Caused by diet too low in fiber, or diet too high in fat or an inactive lifestyle.

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