CSEC Food and Nutrition - JMG
CSEC Food and Nutrition - JMG
Nutrition is the study of nutrients and how its is used by the body , and its connection to diet
health and diseases The basic principles of nutrition include:
● Adequacy: The diet must provide all essential nutrients in the right amounts.
● Balance: There must be a proper balance of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and
minerals.
● Moderation: Avoid excess intake of unhealthy foods like sugars, fats, and processed
items.
● Variety: Eating a wide range of foods ensures all nutrients are consumed.
● Nutrient Density: Choosing foods rich in vitamins and minerals rather than empty
calories.
● Carbohydrates
○ Sources: Rice, bread, potatoes, fruits.
○ Function: Main energy source for the body.
● Proteins
○ Sources: Meat, fish, beans, eggs.
○ Function: Growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues.and cells
● Fats
○ Sources: Butter, oils, nuts, fatty fish.
○ Function: Energy storage, insulation, and protecting organs.
● Vitamins
○ Fat-soluble (stored in fat): A, D, E, K.
○ Water-soluble (not stored, must be consumed daily): B-complex, C.
○ Sources: Fruits, vegetables, dairy, fish.
○ Functions: Support immune function, metabolism, and growth.
● Minerals
○ Examples: Calcium (for bones), Iron (for blood), Iodine (for thyroid health).
○ Sources: Dairy, meats, leafy greens, seafood.
7. Explain the importance of calcium and iron in the diet of special groups
of persons
● Pregnant women: Need more iron to prevent anemia and support the baby’s
development. (Iron Needed for: Pregnant women, menstruating women, athletes.)
● Iron absorption is improved by: Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) (e.g., eating citrus fruits with
iron-rich foods).
● Iron absorption is hindered by: Tea, coffee, excess calcium.
● Sources: Water, fruits and vegetables, soups and broth, coconut water.
● Functions:
○ Hydrates the body.
○ Aids digestion and circulation.
○ Helps regulate body temperature.
🔹 Example question:
Define the term "diet" and explain its role in maintaining good health.
● Types of diets:
●
○ Balanced diet: Includes all essential nutrients in the right proportions.
○ Vegetarian diet: No meat, but may include dairy and eggs.
○ Vegan diet: No animal products at all.
○ Low-carb diet: Focuses on proteins and fats, reduces carbohydrates.
○ Mediterranean diet: High in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy
fats.
🔹 Example question:
Compare a balanced diet with a vegetarian diet in terms of health benefits.
🔹 Example question:
Describe two diet-related health problems affecting the Caribbean and suggest ways to
prevent them.
4.Discuss the basic dietary guidelines for the Caribbean
The Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute (CFNI) provides dietary guidelines to promote
good health. These include:
1. Eat a variety of foods daily – No single food contains all the nutrients your body needs.
2.Consume more fruits and vegetables – These provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
3.Limit sugar intake – Excess sugar can cause diabetes and obesity.
4.Reduce salt and processed foods – Too much salt increases the risk of hypertension.
5.Drink plenty of water – Keeps the body hydrated and supports digestion.
6.Eat more whole grains and fiber-rich foods– Helps digestion and prevents constipation.
7. Limit fats and oils, choose healthy fats – Avoid excess saturated fats from fried foods.
🔹 Example question:
List and explain four dietary guidelines recommended for maintaining good health in the
Caribbean.
5. Discuss the factors that influence eating patterns and dietary choices in
the Caribbean
Several factors affect what people eat, including:
🍛
Culture and traditions – Some foods are popular due to cultural heritage, e.g., jerk
chicken in Jamaica.
💲 Economic status – People with low income may buy cheaper, less nutritious foods.
🛒
Availability of food – Some foods are seasonal, while others are imported and
expensive.
🏡 Family and peer influence – Eating habits often come from family traditions.
📢 Media and advertising – Fast food ads influence people, especially young consumers.
💊
Health concerns – Some people choose foods based on dietary restrictions, e.g.,
diabetics avoid sugary foods.
🔹 Example question:
Explain three factors that influence dietary choices in the Caribbean.
6. Discuss factors which contribute to changes in dietary needs
Dietary needs change based on:
👶
Age – Children need more protein and calcium for growth, while elderly people may
need more fiber and less fat.
🏃
Activity level – Athletes need more carbohydrates for energy, while less active people
should eat fewer calories.
💪
Health conditions – People with high blood pressure should eat less salt, while
anemic individuals need more iron.
🤰
Pregnancy and breastfeeding – Mothers need more nutrients like iron, calcium, and
folic acid.
🍽️ Special diets – Vegetarians, vegans, and people with food allergies have different
dietary needs.
🔹 Example question:
Describe how dietary needs change at different stages of life.
✔️
Maintaining good health requires:
✔️
✔️
Regular exercise – Helps with weight management and heart health.
Adequate sleep – Supports body functions and recovery.
🔹 Example question:
Create a daily activity and meal plan for a teenager to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
8. Explain the importance of community nutrition
Community nutrition ensures that people in a community have access to healthy food. It
helps by:
🔹 Example question:
Explain two ways in which community nutrition benefits society.
anemia.
👴
Elderly – May suffer from poor appetite or difficulty chewing, leading to nutrient
deficiencies.
🔹 Example question:
Identify three vulnerable groups and explain the nutritional challenges they face.
10. Discuss the factors that threaten the food security of these vulnerable
groups within a community
Food security means having access to safe, sufficient, and nutritious food at all times.
Threats include:
🌪️ Natural disasters – Hurricanes and droughts destroy crops and food supply.
📈 Rising food prices – Makes it harder for families to buy nutritious foods.
🚫 Limited access to healthcare – Poor health affects a person’s ability to get proper
nutrition.
🔹 Example question:
Explain two factors that threaten food security in vulnerable communities.
assistance.
🔹 Example question:
Discuss the role of two organizations in improving community nutrition.
1. Explain Terms Associated with Meal Planning
Meal planning involves making decisions about what meals to prepare, considering
nutritional needs, budget, preferences, and availability of ingredients. Key terms include:
● Balanced diet – A diet that includes all the essential nutrients in the right
proportions.
●
● Meal pattern – The regularity and combination of meals eaten daily (e.g., breakfast,
lunch, dinner).
●
● Menu – A planned selection of foods for a meal.
●
● Portion control – Serving the correct amount of food to meet dietary needs.
●
● Multi-mix principle – A method of combining different food groups to ensure
nutritional adequacy.
●
● Garnishing – Adding decorative touches to food for visual appeal.
●
● Table setting – Arranging dishes, utensils, and cutlery properly for a meal.
● Meal
● Breakfast
● Brunch
● Lunch
● Dinner
● Supper
● Tea(High Tea)
● A la Carte
● Table d’hôte
● Course
● Appetizeter
● Hors d’oeuvres
● Entrée
● Accompaniment
2. Outline the Factors to be Considered in the Planning of Meals
1. Nutritional Needs – Meals should be balanced with carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins,
2. Age and Health Conditions–Infants, children, teenagers, adults, pregnant women, and the
3. Budget – Consider cost-effective ways to prepare nutritious meals.
4. Food Availability & Seasonality – Use foods that are in season as they are fresher and cheaper.
5. Time and Skill – Choose meals that match the cook’s time and ability to prepare.
6. Cultural and Religious Practices – Certain foods may be restricted based on beliefs (e.g.,
vegetarianism, halal).
7. Personal Preference – Consider individual likes and dislikes
.
8. Special Diets – Some people require modified diets (e.g., diabetics, hypertensive individuals).
✔ Two-mix – Combining two food groups (e.g., rice & peas) (stable+legume/animal)
✔ Three-mix – Adding a third food group (e.g., rice, peas & chicken)
✔ Four-mix –Combining four food groups for completeness (e.g., rice, peas, chicken &
Using a variety of food groups ensures all essential nutrients are included.
✅
When planning for special events, consider:
✅
✅
Special dietary needs
Available ingredients
Budget constraints
6. Plan and Prepare Meals for Different Groups
Different groups have unique nutritional requirements:
👶 Infants – Need soft, easy-to-digest foods like pureed vegetables and mashed fruits.
👦 Children & Adolescents – Require protein and calcium-rich meals for growth.
👩⚕ Pregnant Women – Need iron, folic acid, and protein to support fetal development.
👵 Elderly Individuals – Require easily chewable, nutrient-dense foods with fiber and
calcium.
🥦
Vegetarians avoid some or all animal products:
🍎
🌱
Ovo-vegetarian – Includes eggs but no dairy, meat, or fish.
Lacto-ovo vegetarian – Includes both dairy and eggs, but no meat or fish.
Vegan – No animal products at all.
Vegetarians must ensure they get enough protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin B12 from
plant-based sources.
✅
Example: A balanced vegan meal could include brown rice, lentils, callaloo, and avocado.
9. Plan and Prepare Meals to Prevent Various Nutritional Disorders
Nutritional disorders occur due to deficiencies or excess intake:
✔ Buying local, seasonal foods.
✔ Using legumes as a protein source.
✔ Cooking in bulk and storing leftovers.
✔ Avoiding processed foods.
Example: Red beans and rice with steamed cabbage – nutritious, affordable, and
balanced.
✅
Examples:
Example: Formal Dinner – Forks on the left, knives and spoons on the right, glasses
above knives.
Practice Questions #1 for CSEC Food and Nutrition
Section A: Multiple-Choice
1. Which of the following is an example of a macronutrient?
a) Vitamin C
b) Iron
c) Carbohydrates
d) Zinc
2. Which diet is most suitable for someone with high blood pressure?
a) High-fat diet
b) Low-sodium diet
c) High-sugar diet
d) High-protein diet
3. What is the main function of fiber in the diet?
a) Builds muscles
b) Provides energy
c) Aids digestion
d) Strengthens bones
(a) Obesity
● Description: A condition where the body either does not produce enough insulin or
cannot use it properly, leading to high blood sugar levels.
● Effects on the Body: Can cause nerve damage, kidney disease, vision problems
(blindness), poor circulation (which can lead to amputations), and an increased risk of
heart disease.
Conclusion:
Food security refers to the availability, accessibility, and affordability of food. Natural disasters
such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts can severely impact food security in the Caribbean.
Conclusion:
Natural disasters severely threaten food security by destroying food sources, disrupting supply
chains, and increasing food prices. Governments must implement disaster preparedness plans
to reduce the impact.
Pregnant women and elderly individuals have specific dietary needs to support their health.
Calories Higher intake to support baby’s growth. Lower intake due to reduced
metabolism.
Iron High intake to prevent anemia (due to Needed to prevent anemia (common
increased blood volume). in older adults).
Fiber Helps with digestion and prevents Aids in digestion and reduces risk of
constipation. heart disease.
Conclusion:
Pregnant women require nutrients to support the baby’s growth, while elderly individuals need a
balanced diet to prevent age-related diseases.
Conclusion:
By implementing these measures, the government can create a healthier school environment,
reducing childhood obesity and encouraging lifelong healthy eating habits.