Effects of Food Poisoning

The impact of diet on health

P1. Identify the components of a balanced diet

* Carbohydrates – these are essential because they are a source of energy in our bodies.

* Vitamins – vitamins come in different types including A, B,C, D, E, K. Some are good for vision, healthy skin, strong bones and teeth. Others also have their own purposes.

* Proteins – these are important for the building and repairing of muscles in the body. Protein sources include meat, fish, chicken, pulses e.t.c.

* Minerals – minerals come in the form of calcium, iron, iodine etc. These help the body release energy from food. The different types of minerals have different functions in the body.

* Fibre – fibre is important for quick digestion of food in the body. It is not digested itself and it prevents constipation. Fibre also helps in weight control. It is sourced from fresh fruit, wholegrain cereals and vegetables.

* Water – water is important to maintain fluid levels in our bodies. When we sweat, our bodies need rehydration and drinking helps our bodies to reabsorb what has been lost.

P2. Identify different dietary needs at each life stage.

Diet is a particular pattern of eating and a balanced diet provides the correct amount of all nutrients without excess or deficiency to maintain health. There are many reasons why someone is interested in their diet, for example to improve health, lose weight or increase performance. All nutritional plans need to be designed to suit individual goals, differences and requirements and so there is no one diet that will suit everyone.

Health

Many studies have shown that the diet is important in the prevention of diseases such as cancer, coronary heart disease, birth defects and cataracts.

Body composition

A calorie and nutrient controlled diet is shown to have a positive effect on reducing body composition. If looking to manipulate body composition the diet plays a very important role regardless of activity.

Energy

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