Proteins
Main function: Growth and repair of body cells Used to make hormones, enzymes, and antibodies
What is a Protein? Made up of amino acids Composed of a combination of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen
What is a Protein? During digestion, proteins are broken down into amino acids and absorbed through the intestinal wall When the body needs to repair cells/tissues these absorbed acids are used
Amino Acids Fall into 2 Categories
Essential Amino Acids (9) Not manufactured in the body Have to come from the food you eat If a food contains all 9 amino acids it is called a complete protein source (i.e. meat) If a food does not contain all 9 acids it is an incomplete protein source (i.e. plants)
Non-Essential Amino Acids (11) Can be manufactured by the body
The body needs all 20 amino acids to function properly. If even one acid is missing, tissue building and repair will not occur.
Complementary Proteins Incomplete proteins can be combined to provide complete proteins (i.e. legumes and rice).
Carbohydrates
Primary source of energy Cheapest and most easily digested form of fuel
Simple Carbohydrates Consist of : 1. Monosaccharides: Single sugar units Smallest carb molecule Types include: glucose (found in many foods) and fructose (found in fruit)
Simple Carbohydrates 2. Disaccharides Two sugar units Types include: sucrose – table sugar (glucose + fructose), lactose – found in milk ( glucose + galactose)
Both mono and disaccharides are known as sugars
Complex Carbohydrates Larger, more intricate molecules
Complex Carbohydrates Consist of: Polysaccharides Made up of many sugar units Include starch and fibres
Disaccharides and Polysaccharides must be broken down into Monosaccharides during digestion
Why? The only way for body cells to use carbs is in the form of glucose Fructose and galactose are converted into glucose by your liver
Why Eat Complex Carbs Then? Complex carbs, in general, have more health and nutrition benefits. Why?
Complex Carbs (i.e. starches) 1. Can be burned very efficiently for fuel 2. Make you feel full longer 3. Are often excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
Simple Carbs (i.e. sugars) 1. Are often refined sugars – added for taste 2. Are not accompanied by any other nutrients 3. Increase the calories in food without increasing the health benefits.