Summary
Summary - digestive system part 2
- Course
- Institution
Summary of 10 pages for the course digestive system part 2 at PEARSON (distinction met)
[Show more]
Seller
Follow
isnanafridi
Content preview
The Human Digestive System Part 2The Importance of Nutrients
Fibre: Sources of dietary fibre include fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and grains. Consuming
an adequate amount of dietary fibre is important for maintaining a healthy digestive system and
overall health. A deficiency in dietary fibre can result in constipation, bloating, and abdominal
discomfort. On the other hand, consuming too much dietary fibre can cause digestive issues
such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and bloating. Dietary fibre is beneficial for maintaining bowel
health. It increases the weight and size of your stool, as well as softens it, making it easier to
pass. This helps to reduce the chance of constipation. Additionally, if you have loose, watery
stools, fibre can help to solidify them as it absorbs water and adds bulk. All of this makes it
easier for your body to pass stool and maintain a healthy digestive system.
Lipids: Sources of lipids include animal fats, vegetable oils, and nuts. An excess or deficiency of
lipids in the body can have a variety of consequences. For example, consuming more than the
recommended amount of lipids can lead to obesity, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular
disease. On the other hand, a deficiency of lipids can lead to dry skin, poor wound healing, and
a weakened immune system. They are primarily known for their role in energy storage, but they
also serve as important structural components of cell membranes and participate in a variety of
signalling pathways. Lipids are composed of fatty acids, which are long chains of carbon atoms
with a carboxyl group at one end. The physical properties of lipids are determined by the length
and saturation of their fatty acid chains. Saturated fatty acids are linear and pack tightly
together, making them solid at room temperature, while unsaturated fatty acids have kinks in
their chains that prevent tight packing, making them liquid at room temperature. The most
common lipids found in the body are triglycerides, phospholipids, and cholesterol. Triglycerides
are the main form of energy storage in the body, while phospholipids and cholesterol are
important components of cell membranes. Lipids are transported in the blood by lipoproteins,
which are complexes of lipids and proteins. Lipid metabolism is tightly regulated to maintain
homeostasis, and dysregulation of lipid metabolism can lead to a variety of diseases, including
obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Protein: Protein is an essential macronutrient that is found in many dietary sources, such as
fish, poultry, eggs, dairy, legumes, nuts, and seeds. It is an important component of all cells in
the body and plays a key role in many bodily functions, including the growth and repair of
tissues, the production of enzymes and hormones, and the regulation of body fluids. Protein
deficiencies can lead to a variety of symptoms, such as muscle wasting, weakness, fatigue,
stunted growth, and oedema. It is important to ensure adequate dietary intake of protein to
maintain optimal health. Additionally, certain micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are
needed for the proper absorption and utilization of protein. A deficiency in these micronutrients
can lead to a wide range of health issues, such as anaemia, osteoporosis, impaired immune
function and kwashiorkor -stunted growth.
, Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are a type of macronutrient that provides the body with energy.
Dietary sources of carbohydrates include grains, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then used by the body for energy.
Without carbohydrates, the body would not be able to function properly. Additionally,
carbohydrates are important for the proper functioning of the brain, as they are the primary
source of energy for the brain.
Low blood sugar level, known as hypoglycaemia or a "hypo", is a condition where the level of
glucose in the blood drops below the normal range. This condition is mainly observed in people
with diabetes, particularly those who take insulin. Hypoglycaemia can be a serious health
concern if left untreated, but it can be easily managed by the affected person.
The symptoms of hypoglycaemia can vary from person to person, and one may experience
different symptoms over time. Early signs of hypoglycaemia include sweating, fatigue, dizziness,
hunger, tingling lips, shakiness, palpitations, irritability, tearfulness, anxiety, moodiness, and
turning pale. If hypoglycaemia is not treated promptly, it may lead to weakness, blurred visio n,
confusion, difficulty concentrating, unusual behavior, slurred speech, clumsiness, sleepiness,
seizures, fits, or even collapsing.
It is important to note that hypoglycaemia can be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle,
monitoring blood glucose levels regularly, and taking medications as prescribed by a healthcare
professional. In conclusion, hypoglycaemia is a serious health condition that requires prompt
attention, and individuals with diabetes should be aware of the symptoms and how to manage
them effectively.
Micronutrients are also essential for a healthy diet. They include vitamins and minerals, which
are necessary for the body to function properly. Dietary sources of micronutrients include fruits,
vegetables, and dairy products. Vitamins and minerals are necessary for the proper functioning
of the body’s organs and systems, as well as for the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth.
Deficiencies in carbohydrates can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight loss,
and anaemia.
Water:Water is a vital nutrient for human beings, and it plays a crucial role in various
physiological functions. The primary sources of water are beverages, food, and metabolic water.
Beverages, such as water, tea, coffee, and juice, are the most common sources of water. Food,
especially fruits and vegetables, also contain a significant amount of water. Metabolic water is
produced by the oxidation of macronutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
The functions of water in the human body are numerous. Water helps regulate body
temperature, lubricates joints, and acts as a solvent for nutrients and waste products. It also
plays a crucial role in digestion, absorption, and transportation of nutrients. Water is essential for
the proper functioning of the kidneys, which filter waste products from the blood and excrete
them in the urine.
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller isnanafridi. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $10.95. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
Can Stuvia be trusted?
4.6 stars on Google & Trustpilot (+1000 reviews)
50843 documents were sold in the last 30 days
Founded in 2010, the go-to place to buy study notes for 14 years now