General Food Biochemistry

This text provides an in-depth exploration of the essential role of nutrition in human health, focusing on the various nutrients required by the body, their functions, and the significance of a balanced diet. It covers the physiological functions of food, the critical nutrients necessary for growth, maintenance, and repair, and explains the concept of Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). With chapters on different nutrient groups such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, minerals, vitamins, and water, this book serves as an essential resource for understanding how food and nutrition directly impact body functions, disease resistance, and overall well-being.

Nutrition, the process by which the body utilizes food, is fundamental to maintaining good health and functionality. Essential nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, minerals, vitamins, and water are required in specific amounts for growth, energy production, and the regulation of bodily functions. This book discusses the physiological roles of food and nutrients, highlighting the importance of a balanced diet based on the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). It also details the functions of different nutrients, including their role in energy production, tissue repair, immune function, and disease prevention. Special attention is given to the classification of carbohydrates and the various methods used to determine nutrient requirements, including the factorial method and depletion-repletion studies. This comprehensive resource will help readers understand how nutrition contributes to both general and specific health needs and the importance of achieving an optimal intake of essential nutrients.

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