Question

A.) there are many micro nutrients involved in fluid balance such as electrolytes and antioxidants, what are these nutrients and what do they do for your health specifically? what is the best and healthiest way to get more of these nutrients?

B.) name one common nutritional issue associated with each of the following groups of people: pregnant women, children and the elderly.

Answer 1

A.)

Micronutrient: These are small compounds needed in minimum amounts to enable the body to produce enzymes, hormones and other substances essential for healthy growth and development. They include microminerals (examples: fluoride, selenium, sodium, iodine, copper, and zinc) and Vitamins (C, A, D, E, Kand the B-complex vitamins).  

i. Electrolytes: These are minerals in our body that have an electric charge. They are in your blood, urine, tissues, and other body fluids.

Functions of electrolites in our body:

1. Balance the amount of water in our body

2. Balance our body's acid/base (pH) level

3. Move nutrients into your cells

4. Move wastes out of your cells

5. Make sure that your nerves, muscles, the heart, and the brain work

Healthy channel to get electrolytes:

We get them from the foods we eat and the fluids you drink. Bananas, dairy foods, watermelon, avacado, coconut water are the best sources of electrolytes.

ii. Antioxidants: These are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. They are also called as free-radical scavengers.

Functions of antioxidants:

1. They reduces the free radicals.

2. They stimulate the growth of normal cells.

3. Protect cells against premature and abnormal ageing.

4. Help fight age related molecular degeneration.

5. They support the body immune system.

Best health channelsto get antioxidants:

Plant foods are rich sources of antioxidants. They are most abundant in fruits and vegetables, as well as other foods including nuts, wholegrains and some meats, poultry and fish.

B.)

Common nutritional issues associated with different group of people:

i. Pregnant women:

Iron is the most used mineral in the body. It is used to make hemoglobin. Iron deficiencies can lead to the onset of auditory nervous system development, making it difficult to comprehend sound.

Calcium is a very important mineral for making bones stronger. Your developing baby requires calcium for the development of strong teeth. It ensures that your nervous system, muscles the and circulation are at its peak. Research suggests that calcium deficiency in mothers can lead to the development of high blood pressure in the newborn.

ii. Children:

1. A weak immune system, which increases the risk of infections

2. Poor wound healing

3. Muscle weakness and decreased bone mass

4. Slower growth rate mentally and physically

iii. Elderly people:

Malnutrition in older adults can lead to various health concerns, including:

1. A weak immune system, which increases the risk of infections

2. Poor wound healing

3. Muscle weakness and decreased bone mass, which can lead to falls and fractures

4. A higher risk of hospitalization

5. An increased risk of death

Hope this answer helps.

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