QUESTIONS

1. It is essential that humans consume a balanced diet daily. What is a balanced diet and
2. why is it needed?
3. Why is it important for a person’s daily diet to contain sufficient protein?
4. Construct a table to give ONE source, the functions, and the effects of the deficiency of
the following micronutrients: vitamin C, vitamin D, iron and iodine.
5. What is the importance of roughage in the daily diet?
6. What factors affect a person’s daily energy requirements?
7. Suggest THREE causes of malnutrition.
8. What dietary advice would you give to a person suffering from:
a diabetes b hypertension c a deficiency disease?
9. Suggest TWO benefits of a vegetarian diet.
ANSWERS
1. Balanced Diet:
A balanced diet is one that provides the necessary nutrients in appropriate proportions to maintain
overall health and well-being. It includes a variety of foods from all food groups, such as fruits,
vegetables, grains, protein sources, and dairy products.
A balanced diet is essential because it:

 Supplies the body with en ough energy for daily activities.

 Supplies the correct materials for growth and development.
 It keeps the body in a healthy state.

2. Protein in Daily Diet:

Protein is crucial for the body because it:
- Builds and Repairs Tissues: Essential for the growth and repair of cells, tissues, and organs.
- Enzyme and Hormone Production: Facilitates the production of enzymes and hormones that
regulate various body functions.
- Immune System Support: Plays a role in the immune system's defence against infections.
- Muscle Function: Supports muscle development and function.
3. Table on Micronutrients:

Micronutrient Source Function Deficiency

Vitamin C West Indian cherries, Immune system function Scurvy
citrus fruits, raw
green vegetables Tissue maintenance
Weakened Immune
system
Vitamin D Fatty fish fortified dairy Calcium absorption Osteomalacia
products. Bone health Rickets
Immune System Function
Sunlight
Iron Red meat, beans, leafy Haemoglobin Production Anaemia
greens
 Iodine Sea foods, e.g. fish, Thyroxine Production Goitre
shellfish and Cretinism
seaweed, milk,
eggs.

4. Importance of Roughage:
Roughage, or dietary fibre, is important because it:
- Aids Digestion: Adds bulk to the stool, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel
movements.
- Regulates Blood Sugar: Slows down the absorption of sugar, beneficial for individuals with
diabetes.
- Supports Heart Health: Helps lower cholesterol levels and reduces the risk of heart disease.

5. Factors Affecting Daily Energy Requirements:

- Age, gender, and body size
- Physical activity level
- Metabolic rate
- Pregnancy and lactation

6. Causes of Malnutrition:
- Insufficient food intake
- Poor nutrient absorption
- Lack of access to a variety of nutritious foods

7. Dietary Advice:
- a. Diabetes: Lower intake of sugar and saturated fats. Consume more fibre rich foods and focus on
lean meats instead of fatty meats.
- b. Hypertension: Reduce sodium, sugar and saturated fats intake. Increase consumption of
potassium, calcium and magnesium-rich foods, high fibre foods, maintain a healthy weight.
- c. Deficiency Disease: Consume foods rich in the deficient nutrient or consume supplements

8. Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet:

- Lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
- Improved weight management and lower risk of obesity.