Introducing Diet

Functions of Water in DietAs a Solvent

For Hydrolysis

As a Transport Medium

Purpose of Dietary FibreFibre is a general term used to refer to plant material

that cannot be digested (Cellulose)Examples of foods rich in fibre:

Breadfruit Yams Bananas Peas and Beans Nuts Whole wheat flour Oats Unrefined Cornmeal Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Purpose of Dietary FibreHigh fibre diets keep the intestines healthy

Fibre helps to relieve constipation

It may help people to lose weight

Guards against some cancers of the intestinal

tract

ConstipationConstipation is a common disturbance of the digestive tract. In this condition, the bowels do not move regularly, or are not completely emptied when they move. This condition is the chief cause of many diseases as it produces toxins which find their way into the bloodstream and are carried to all parts of the body. Appendicitis, rheumatism, arthritis, high blood pressure, cataract, and cancer are only a few of the diseases in which chronic constipation is an important predisposing factor.

Common Causes Of Constipation Not enough fibre in diet. Not enough liquids. Lack of exercise. Medications. Irritable bowel syndrome. Changes in life or routine such as pregnancy, older age, and

travel. Abuse of laxatives. Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement. Specific diseases such as multiple sclerosis and lupus. Problems with the colon and rectum. Problems with intestinal function (Chronic idiopathic

constipation.)

DiarrhoeaDiarrhoea refers to the frequent passage of loose or watery unformed stools.Diarrhoea may be acute or chronic. Commonly known as 'loose motions', it is one of the commonest diseases, particularly in India, in children. The small intestine normally gets more than ten litres of liquid per day which comes from the diet and from secretions of the stomach, liver, pancreas, and intestines. In the case of diarrhoea, water is either not absorbed or is excreted in excess. It is then sent to the colon whose water-holding capacity is limited. Thus the urge to defecate comes quite often.

DietDiet includes the foods we eat and drink dailyA healthy diet should include foods from the six

food groups used in the Caribbean and put forward by the CFNI (Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute)

These groups are: Staples Legumes and Nuts Vegetables Food from Animals Fruits Fats and substitutes

Balanced DietA balanced diet contains the correct

proportions of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, mineral salts, water and roughage to suit individual needs

These proportions vary from person to personA balanced diet also ensures that energy

requirements of individuals are met.In addition a balanced diet should be based

on a selection of foods from the six food groups

Vitamins: Sources and Characteristics

Vitamins

Sources Results of Deficiency

A Liver, fish, egg yolks, green vegetables, carrots

Reduced night vision, colds, respiratory problems, dry skin

B1Yeast, cereals, beans, lean meat

Retarded growth, poor appetite, disease of nervous system (beri beri)

B2 Yeast, cereals, eggs,, liver, legumes

Skin disorders, inflammation of membranes in eye and mouth

B12 Liver, lean meat, eggs, bananas

Pernicious anaemia

CCitrus fruits, raw vegetables, West Indian Cherry

Scurvy. Reduced resistance to infection

D Liver, fish, eggs, butter. Formed in the skin by sunlight.

Rickets in children (children)Osteomalacia (Adults)

Minerals : Usesi. Iron – for the formation of haemoglobinii. Calcium – for the formation of bones and

teeth, muscle contraction and blood clottingiii. Iodine – for the formation of thyroxine.iv. Sodium – for the maintenance of blood

tissue fluids and the transmission of nerve impulses

v. Potassium – for the transmission of nervous impulses

MalnutritionMalnutrition is a general term for a medical

condition caused by an improper or insufficient diet. It most often refers to under nutrition resulting from inadequate consumption, poor absorption, or excessive loss of nutrients, but the term can also encompass over nutrition, resulting from overeating or excessive intake of specific nutrients. An individual will experience malnutrition if the appropriate amount of, or quality of nutrients comprising a healthy diet are not consumed for an extended period of time. An extended period of malnutrition can result in starvation, disease, and infection.

MalnutritionMalnutrition is the lack of sufficient nutrients

to maintain healthy bodily functions and is typically associated with extreme poverty in economically developing countries. It is a common cause of reduced intelligence in parts of the world affected by famine.

BMI The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measurement tool that

compares your height to your weight and gives you an indication of whether you are overweight, underweight or at a healthy weight for your height.

It can be calculated using the following formula

BMI = Weight in Pounds * 703

(Height in Inches)2

Weight in Kilograms

(Height in Meters)2

BMI Chart

Underweight: 18.4 and below

Healthy: 18.5 - 24.9

Overweight/At Risk: 25.0 - 29.9

Obese: 30 and above