Food and Its Nutrients

Kwashiorkor

Step 1: Analyze the key clue. The child has an adequate calorie intake from carbohydrates but shows severe deficiency symptoms. This means the deficiency is specifically of protein, not of total energy. Step 2: Match with PEM types. Kwashiorkor occurs when protein intake is deficient but calorie intake from carbohydrates is adequate. The characteristic sign is a pot-like or distended belly (edema in the abdomen). Step 3: Distinguish from Marasmus. Marasmus occurs when BOTH protein and total energy are severely deficient. These children appear extremely thin and wasted, not edematous. Step 4: E

Haemoglobin carries oxygen to cells; iron deficiency reduces haemoglobin, so cells receive less oxygen, causing fatigue.

Step 1: Understand haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is the red pigment found in red blood cells. Its primary function is to carry oxygen from the lungs to all cells of the body. Step 2: Role of iron. Iron is a critical component of the haemoglobin molecule. Without adequate iron, the body cannot produce enough haemoglobin. Step 3: Effect of iron deficiency. When haemoglobin levels drop (anaemia), cells receive less oxygen. Without oxygen, cells cannot produce energy efficiently. Step 4: Result. This reduced energy production at the cellular level leads to constant fatigue, weakness, and an inability t

270 kcal

Step 1: Recall the energy value of fat. One gram of fat provides 9 kcal of energy. Step 2: Apply the formula. Energy from fat = grams of fat × 9 kcal/g = 30 × 9 = 270 kcal. Step 3: Compare with carbohydrates and proteins. Both carbohydrates and proteins give only 4 kcal per gram, making fat the most concentrated source of energy. Step 4: Why other options are wrong. 120 kcal = 30 × 4 (wrong factor – that is carbohydrate/protein value). 300 kcal = 30 × 10 (incorrect energy value). 180 kcal = 30 × 6 (no nutrient provides 6 kcal/g). Always use 9 kcal/g for fat.

The skin synthesizes Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, and Vitamin D works with calcium and phosphorus to build strong bones and teeth.

Step 1: Understand vitamin D synthesis. When ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight fall on the skin, a chemical reaction converts a precursor compound in the skin into Vitamin D. This is why it is called the 'sunshine vitamin'. Step 2: Role of Vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food in the intestines. Without adequate Vitamin D, calcium cannot be properly absorbed even if diet contains sufficient calcium. Step 3: Combined effect on bones. Working together, Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus ensure bones and teeth remain strong and dense. Step 4: D