Energy Supply

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The body manages its energy supply with amazing precision. Consider that many people maintain their weight within about a 10- to 20-pound range throughout their lives. How do they do this? How does the body manage excess energy? How do bones, muscle, fat, fluid, and other tissue influence our body composition? However, overweight, and underweight both result in energy imbalance. Almost 42% of adults aged 20 and above are overweight placing them at risk of developing chronic diseases that affect quality of life.

After studying Module 3: Lecture Materials & Resources, answer the following:

Conduct a nutrition/survey interview with 2 athletes and ask them a) what protein or amino acid supplements they use in their diet? and b) why do they use those supplements? Then, navigate to: www.quackwatch.orgLinks to an external site. and enter the name of the supplement. Provide 1 paragraph with your analysis of the products and what you found out about the products’ nutritional characteristics (see Chapter 5, page 132 of your textbook).
Search the internet for a popular weight-loss program (i.e., Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, etc.), and submit 1 paragraph with the following:
describe the diet plan
evaluate whether the plan offers a nutritionally reliable way to lose weight or is it a Fad Diet (see Chapter 7, Table NP7-1, page 193 of your textbook)
In 1 paragraph, describe type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes by providing:
characteristics
definition
causes & symptoms (see Chapter 20, Table 20.2, page 564 of your textbook).

 

Sample Solution

Body Composition, Weight Management, and Diabetes

Body Composition and Energy Balance:

Our body maintains a relatively stable weight due to a complex interplay between energy intake (calories from food) and energy expenditure (calories burned through metabolism and activity). Bones, muscle, and fat contribute significantly to body composition. Muscle is metabolically active, burning more calories at rest compared to fat. Fluid plays a vital role in various bodily functions, and its distribution can also influence weight. Maintaining a healthy body composition with a balance of muscle and fat is crucial for overall health.

Protein Supplements and Athletes (Sample Survey):

Interview 1:

  • Supplement: Whey protein powder
  • Reason: Supports muscle recovery and growth after training.

Interview 2:

  • Supplement: Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs)
  • Reason: Believes BCAAs enhance performance during workouts.

Quackwatch Analysis:

According to Quackwatch.org, whey protein is a good source of high-quality protein but may not be necessary for everyone. Similarly, the research on BCAAs for performance enhancement is mixed. Athletes may benefit more from a balanced diet rich in protein sources like lean meats, dairy, and legumes.

Weight Loss Programs: Weight Watchers (Sample):

Weight Watchers assigns points to different foods based on calories, fat, and fiber content. This approach promotes portion control and healthier food choices. It is not considered a fad diet because it encourages long-term lifestyle changes and emphasizes a balanced diet. (Refer to Chapter 7, Table NP7-1 for fad diet characteristics).

Types of Diabetes:

  • Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune disease where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This leads to a chronic deficiency of insulin, a hormone essential for blood sugar regulation. Symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, and unexplained weight loss.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: The body develops insulin resistance or an inability to produce enough insulin. Risk factors include a family history, obesity, and physical inactivity. Symptoms may be mild initially but can include fatigue, increased thirst, and blurred vision.
  • Gestational Diabetes: A temporary form of diabetes occurring during pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect blood sugar control. Symptoms are often absent, and routine prenatal screening helps with early detection.

 

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