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Food

Food is a source of chemical energy in humans.

The energy required by different individuals is dependent on activity, gender and age.

The more active a person is, the more energy they need.

This is due to their muscles working harder.

Males need more energy than females.

This is due to males having a higher muscle mass.

Young people need more energy than older people.

This is due to young people growing and being more active.

FoodFunctionSource
CarbohydrateEnergy source: starch (slow release) and sugar (fast release)Bread, pasta, biscuits
FatEnergy source: InsulationOil, butter
ProteinGrowth and repairRed meat, eggs
WaterSolvent, Transport of substances around the bodyMost foods and drinks
FibrePrevent constipation.Wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables
Vitamin CHealthy teeth and gums.Citrus fruits
Vitamin DStrong bones and teeth.Fish oil, dairy products
Calcium (mineral)Strong bones and teethDairy products.
Iron (mineral)Helps red blood cells carry oxygenRed meat, spinach.
FoodCarbohydrate
FunctionEnergy source: starch (slow release) and sugar (fast release)
SourceBread, pasta, biscuits
FoodFat
FunctionEnergy source: Insulation
SourceOil, butter
FoodProtein
FunctionGrowth and repair
SourceRed meat, eggs
FoodWater
FunctionSolvent, Transport of substances around the body
SourceMost foods and drinks
FoodFibre
FunctionPrevent constipation.
SourceWholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables
FoodVitamin C
FunctionHealthy teeth and gums.
SourceCitrus fruits
FoodVitamin D
FunctionStrong bones and teeth.
SourceFish oil, dairy products
FoodCalcium (mineral)
FunctionStrong bones and teeth
SourceDairy products.
FoodIron (mineral)
FunctionHelps red blood cells carry oxygen
SourceRed meat, spinach.

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