### 1.

Difference between Micro and Macro Nutrients (5 marks)

### 2. Zinc and Selenium Food Products and Benefits (5 marks)

**Zinc:**
- **Food Sources:** Beef, poultry, seafood (especially oysters), dairy products, nuts, seeds,
and whole grains.
- **Benefits:**
- Supports immune function.
- Facilitates wound healing.
- Necessary for proper growth and development.
- Important for DNA synthesis and cell division.

**Selenium:**
- **Food Sources:** Brazil nuts, seafood (tuna, shrimp, salmon), meat (beef, lamb, turkey),
eggs, and grains (wheat, rice).
- **Benefits:**
- Acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage.
- Supports thyroid function.
- Boosts immune system.
- May reduce the risk of certain cancers.

### Part- B
Nutritional Psychology: Understanding the Relationship between Nutrition and Psychology

**Introduction:**
Nutritional psychology explores the intricate relationship between dietary patterns, nutritional
status, and psychological well-being. This interdisciplinary field investigates how food
choices, nutrient intake, and dietary habits influence mood, cognition, and mental health.

**1. Impact of Nutrition on Mental Health:**

 - **Nutrient Deficiencies:** Inadequate intake of essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty
acids, B vitamins, and minerals can contribute to mood disorders such as depression and
anxiety.
- **Gut-Brain Axis:** The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in regulating mood and
behavior through the gut-brain axis. Imbalances in gut bacteria can affect neurotransmitter
production and influence mental health.
- **Inflammation:** Poor dietary choices and obesity can lead to chronic low-grade
inflammation, which has been linked to depression, cognitive decline, and other mental
health issues.

**2. Psychological Factors Affecting Eating Behavior:**

- **Emotional Eating:** Emotional states, such as stress, sadness, or boredom, can trigger
overeating or unhealthy food choices as a coping mechanism.
- **Cognitive Influences:** Beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions about food and body image
can influence dietary habits and nutrient intake.
- **Social Context:** Cultural norms, social pressure, and environmental cues shape eating
behaviors and food preferences.

**3. Nutritional Interventions for Mental Health:**

- **Dietary Recommendations:** Promoting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole
grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support mental well-being.
- **Supplementation:** Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and
probiotics, may have beneficial effects on mood and cognition.
- **Therapeutic Diets:** Dietary interventions like the Mediterranean diet or the DASH diet
have shown promise in improving mental health outcomes and reducing the risk of mood
disorders.

**4. Behavioral Strategies for Healthy Eating:**

- **Mindful Eating:** Practicing mindfulness during meals can enhance awareness of
hunger cues, reduce emotional eating, and promote healthier food choices.
- **Behavioral Therapy:** Cognitive-behavioral techniques can help individuals identify and
challenge negative thought patterns related to food and eating behaviors.
- **Goal Setting:** Setting realistic and achievable goals for dietary changes can enhance
motivation and adherence to healthier eating habits.

**Conclusion:**
Nutritional psychology highlights the bidirectional relationship between nutrition and
psychology, emphasizing the importance of considering both dietary factors and
psychological aspects in promoting mental well-being. By addressing nutritional needs and
psychological factors, individuals can optimize their overall health and quality of life.