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‘Food-based dietary guidelines’ is the complete scientific term for a set of healthy eating messages provided for a population, in terms of how much and which types of foods to eat for good health - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1 - 2012
Question 1
‘Food-based dietary guidelines’ is the complete scientific term for a set of healthy eating messages provided for a population, in terms of how much and which types ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:‘Food-based dietary guidelines’ is the complete scientific term for a set of healthy eating messages provided for a population, in terms of how much and which types of foods to eat for good health - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1 - 2012
Step 1
In relation to the two food groups referred to in the table, comment and suggest reasons for the variations in the recommendations made.
Answer
To analyze the recommendations for bread/cereal and fruit & vegetable servings among different age groups and genders, we need to consider several factors:
Gender Differences
Women typically have different caloric and nutrient needs compared to men. This often results in women being advised to consume a lower amount of calories than men, hence the variation in serving sizes.
Age Group Variation
Children (5-13 years) require different dietary guidelines because of their higher energy needs for growth. This demographic is advised more servings owing to their active growth phase, whereas the older population (51+ years) may require fewer servings due to lower energy and nutritional needs.
Activity Levels
Sedentary lifestyles lead to a recommendation for fewer servings compared to more active individuals. For instance, if an individual is moderately active, they may require more servings from both food groups.
Metabolism
Metabolic rates vary based on muscle mass and age. Generally, younger individuals have faster metabolism compared to older generations, necessitating different serving sizes.
These factors contribute to the diverse recommendations presented in the table.
Step 2
Give an account of carbohydrates and refer to:
Answer
Carbohydrates are organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They can be classified into:
The Chemical Structure of a Monosaccharide
A monosaccharide is the simplest form of carbohydrate. For example, glucose has the chemical formula . It consists of a single sugar unit and serves as a primary energy source for cells.
The Formation of Disaccharides
Disaccharides are formed from two monosaccharides joining together with the elimination of water. For instance:
- (glucose) + (glucose) (maltose) + This process is known as dehydration synthesis.
The Hydrolysis of Sugar to Include Inversion
Hydrolysis is the process wherein disaccharides react with water and enzymes to break down into their monosaccharide components. For example, sucrose breaks down into glucose and fructose, and this process is accelerated by acids or enzymes. Inversion is a specific type of hydrolysis where sucrose is converted into glucose and fructose using invertase enzyme, yielding an inverted sugar syrup.
Step 3
Discuss the importance of balancing energy intake and energy output.
Answer
Balancing energy intake and output is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and overall well-being. Here are the key points:
Energy Equation
To sustain weight, the calories consumed must equal the calories expended. If energy intake exceeds energy output, it leads to weight gain, while the opposite may cause weight loss.
Health Implications
Excessive energy intake can result in obesity and associated health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other metabolic disorders. Conversely, inadequate energy intake can lead to malnutrition and decreased physiological function.
Lifestyle Factors
Regular physical activity helps to maintain energy balance. Exercise not only burns calories but also increases muscle mass, which can elevate resting metabolic rate.
Long-Term Wellness
A consistent balance of energy intake and outflow not only aids in weight management but also promotes overall health and longevity.
Step 4
Identify and discuss contemporary trends in food shopping practices.
Answer
Contemporary food shopping practices have evolved significantly in recent years. Notable trends include:
Convenience and Accessibility
The rise of late-night and 24-hour shops reflects a demand for convenience. Consumers seek flexible shopping hours to accommodate their schedules.
Online Shopping
With the advent of technology, online grocery shopping has surged, allowing users to choose and purchase food from the comfort of their homes. This trend enhances convenience but requires comprehensive logistics for freshness and timely delivery.
Specialty Stores
The emergence of specialty shops, including organic and health food stores, caters to health-conscious consumers who prefer specific dietary options over generic products.
Sustainability
There is a growing focus on sustainability, with consumers opting for locally sourced and eco-friendly products. This trend not only supports local economies but also addresses environmental concerns.
Pricing and Promotions
Retailers are increasingly competitive, leading to diverse pricing strategies and promotional offers aimed at attracting and retaining customers. These trends highlight consumer demand for value without compromising on quality.