Nutrition

at
Categories
Tags

 

Every day, people make choices that affect their physical health and wellness. Some choices are influenced by the environment and social factors, which in turn contribute to people’s health outcomes. Healthcare professionals (i.e., physicians, nurses, dietitians, sports medicine, etc.) are responsible for their own health by making decisions and practicing behaviors that enhance their wellbeing. Healthcare professionals also have a responsibility to their clients. While responsibilities may vary among healthcare professionals, it is important the healthcare team is alert to clients’ nutrition problems and needs.

 

In one paragraph, give at least 2 examples of how culture, society, politics, or religion influences your nutrition. Discuss the role that food plays in your family or personal life.
Navigate to Your Digestive System and How it Works: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/digestive-system-how-it-worksLinks to an external site. View the webpage and share in 1 paragraph at least 1 example of something your learned about the digestive system.
Search the internet for 1 example of an over-the-counter medication designed to treat common digestive problems such as heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids. Write 1 paragraph describing a) appropriate and inappropriate uses for this medication, and b) adverse health implications associated with misuse and/or overuse of this product.

Sample Solution

Culture and family traditions significantly influence my dietary choices. Coming from a South Asian background, spices and flavorful curries are staples. Social gatherings often revolve around elaborate meals, making mindful portion control a challenge. On the other hand, religious festivals sometimes involve fasting or specific food restrictions, which can impact nutrient intake. As a healthcare professional, I strive to maintain a balanced diet, but these social and cultural factors necessitate constant awareness and adjustments.

The Digestive System: A Breakdown

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) webpage I reviewed (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/about-niddk/research-areas/digestive-diseases) explains that the digestive system is a complex assembly of organs working together to break down food into usable nutrients. One interesting fact I learned is that the small intestine, where most nutrient absorption occurs, has a massive surface area due to finger-like projections called villi. This vast surface area allows for efficient nutrient uptake from digested food.

Over-the-Counter Relief: Tums for Heartburn

Tums is a common over-the-counter medication for occasional heartburn. It works by neutralizing stomach acid with calcium carbonate. Tums is appropriate for short-term relief of mild heartburn and indigestion. However, excessive use can lead to constipation or calcium overload. If heartburn is frequent or severe, it’s crucial to consult a doctor, as it could indicate an underlying medical condition requiring a different treatment approach.

This question has been answered.

Get Answer