[Ncert Science Notes]* Ncert Science Class VI | Chapter 2. COMPONENTS OF FOOD

 

CHAPTER – 2 

COMPONENTS OF FOOD 

• Nutrients: Food substances that provide nourishemt to the body. 

• The major nutrients in our food are carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. 

In addition, food also contains dietary fibres and water. 

• Carbohydrates and fats mainly provide energy to our body. 

• Carbohydrates: These are energy-giving compounds. There may be simple carbohydrates or complex carbohydrates. 

• Fats: These are very high energy-giving compounds compounds. They produce greater amount of energy than carbohydrates. 

• Minerals: These are elements required by the body in small amounts. It is essential for growth and development of bones, teeth and red blood cells. 

• Proteins: These are body-building foods. They help in the growth of the body. 

• Vitamins: These are organic substances that protect the body from diseases. 

• Roughage: It is the dietary fibre present in the food. It facilitates regular movement of the bowels and prevents constipation. 

• Balanced diet: It provides all the nutrients that our body needs, in right quantities, along with adequate amount of roughage and water. 

• Deficiency Diseases: These are the diseases cause due to the lack of required nutrients for a long period in the diet. 

• Some Nutrients Deficiency Diseases are: 

(a) Protein: Kwashiorkar - Stunted growth, thinning of legs, protruding belly. 

(b) Protein and Carbohydrates – Marasmus – Complete/partial arrest of growth, lack of energy. 

(c) Vitamin D: Rickets – Bowed legs, bent spine, deofmed bones are joints. 

(d) Vitamin C: Scurvy – Bleeding and swelling of gums, weakness. 

(e) Iodine: Goitre – Enlargement of thyroid gland, retarded growth. 

(f) Iron – Anaemia – Fatigue, loss of appetite, pale skin.