BIOLOGY GROUP 4 PROJECT REPORT
GROUP 3
GROUP MEMBERS
- Nick Kariuki
- Peris Mukoko
- Eric Mugendi
(group leader)
- Christine Jobita
- Omar Chaudry
- Susan Kariuki
INTRODUCTION
Diet refers to the amount and type of food we eat. In sports, the type of food a player eats determines his performance as well as his general well being. Therefore, the player has to include several key components into his diet, among them carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals and water. Each of these components has its own important function, and together they form a balanced diet.
Components of a balanced diet
- Carbohydrates: Provide energy
- Proteins: Used for growth and repair of body tissues
- Lipids: Used to provide energy, thermal insulation, source of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K
- Vitamins: Needed in small amounts for good health, therefore have to be in the diet
- Minerals: Occur in form of ions, needed to maintain osmotic balance in cells, some have specific functions e.g. iron is used to transport oxygen, it forms the haem group in haemoglobin
- Water: Needed for temperature regulation, maintenance of osmotic pressure and transportation of substances in the body.
- Fibre: Comprised mostly of cellulose from plant cell walls. It stimulates movement of food through the gut, thereby aiding digestion