PA R T A : M O D U L E 5
Nutrient
Its Role
Sources
Vitamin E
Acts as an antioxidant. Protects cell membranes and metabolism, especially red and white blood cells. Protects vitamin A and other fats from oxidation. Facilitates resistance against diseases, particularly in lungs.
Green leafy vegetables, vegetable oils, wheat germ, whole-grain products, butter, liver, egg yolk, peanuts, milk fat, nuts and seeds
Calcium
Required for building strong bones and teeth. Important for normal heart and muscle functions, blood clotting and pressure, and immune defenses.
Milk, yogurt, cheese, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, dried fish with bones that are eaten, legumes and peas
Zinc
Important for function of many enzymes. Acts as an antioxidant. Involved with making genetic material and proteins, immune reactions, transport of vitamin A, taste perception, wound healing and sperm production.
Meats, fish, poultry, shellfish, whole grain cereals, legumes, peanuts, milk, cheese, yogurt and vegetables
Selenium
Acts as an antioxidant together with vitamin E. Prevents the impairing of heart muscles.
Meat, eggs, seafood, whole grains and plants grown in selenium-rich soil
Magnesium
Important for building strong bones and teeth, protein synthesis, muscle contraction and transmission of nerve impulses.
Nuts, legumes, whole grain cereals, dark green vegetables and seafood
Iodine
Ensures the development and proper functioning of the brain and of the nervous system. Important for growth, development and metabolism.
Seafood, iodized salt and plants grown in iodine-rich soil
Source: Piwoz & Preble, pp. 15-16
B. Nutrition Assessment 1. Elements of a nutritional assessment: a. Identify risk factors (see above) b. Determine weight gain or loss, linear growth, growth failure or body mass index (BMI) • Weight loss may be so gradual that it is not obvious. There are two basic ways to discover whether weight is being lost: (1) Weigh the person on the same day, once a week, and keep a record of the weight and date. For an average adult, serious weight loss is indicated by a 10 percent loss of body weight or 6-7 kg in one month. If a person does not have a scale at home, it may be possible to take the weight by making an arrangement with a pharmacist, clinic or local health unit having a scale. (2) When clothes become loose and no longer fit properly
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