Definition: Nutrient MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz is for Class IX students studying Home Science (Code 064), based on Unit IV: Food, Nutrition and Health. It specifically covers the topics of the meaning of nutrients and the major components of food. Answer all 10 questions and click submit to see your score and download a PDF of your answers.
Understanding Nutrients and Components of Food
Food is essential for life, providing the energy for our activities, materials for growth and repair, and substances to keep our bodies healthy. The chemical substances in food that our body needs are called nutrients. Understanding these components is the first step towards a healthy lifestyle. This section provides a detailed overview of the topic.
What are Nutrients?
A nutrient is a substance that provides nourishment essential for the maintenance of life and for growth. Our body cannot produce these substances in sufficient amounts, so we must obtain them from our diet. Nutrients are broadly classified into two categories: macronutrients and micronutrients.
1. Macronutrients
These are nutrients that the body needs in relatively large amounts. They provide the bulk of the energy an organism’s metabolic system needs. The three primary macronutrients are:
- Carbohydrates: They are the main source of energy for the body. Each gram of carbohydrate provides 4 calories. Sources include cereals (rice, wheat), potatoes, sugar, and fruits.
- Proteins: Known as the “building blocks” of the body, proteins are essential for growth, repair of tissues, and making enzymes and hormones. They provide 4 calories per gram. Major sources are milk, eggs, meat, fish, and pulses.
- Fats (Lipids): Fats are a concentrated source of energy, providing 9 calories per gram. They are also vital for absorbing certain vitamins (A, D, E, K) and insulating the body. Sources include oils, butter, ghee, and nuts.
2. Micronutrients
These are nutrients that the body needs in smaller amounts, but they are still crucial for normal body functions. They include vitamins and minerals.
- Vitamins: These are organic compounds required for various metabolic processes. Examples include Vitamin C (for immunity), Vitamin D (for bone health), and Vitamin A (for vision). They are found in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
- Minerals: These are inorganic elements that play vital roles. For example, Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth, Iron is essential for making hemoglobin in the blood, and Iodine is required for thyroid function.
Other Important Components of Food
Besides macro and micronutrients, our diet must include two other important components:
- Water: It is essential for life. It helps in transporting nutrients, regulating body temperature, and removing waste products. About 60-70% of our body weight is water.
- Dietary Fibre (Roughage): This is the indigestible part of plant foods. It does not provide energy but is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system and preventing constipation. Sources include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Nutrient Comparison Table
| Component | Primary Function | Energy Provided (per gram) | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Energy-giving | 4 kcal | Rice, Bread, Potato |
| Proteins | Body-building | 4 kcal | Pulses, Eggs, Milk |
| Fats | Energy-giving (concentrated) | 9 kcal | Oil, Butter, Nuts |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Protective & Regulating | 0 kcal | Fruits, Vegetables |
Quick Revision Points
- Nutrient: A chemical substance in food essential for growth and health.
- Macronutrients: Needed in large amounts (Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fats).
- Micronutrients: Needed in small amounts (Vitamins, Minerals).
- Energy-giving foods: Primarily carbohydrates and fats.
- Body-building foods: Primarily proteins.
- Protective foods: Primarily vitamins and minerals.
- Roughage (dietary fibre) helps in digestion but provides no energy.
- Water is a vital component for all bodily functions.
Extra Practice Questions
- Which nutrient is known as a “body-building” food? (Answer: Protein)
- Why is dietary fibre important in our diet? (Answer: It aids in digestion and prevents constipation.)
- Name two sources of carbohydrates. (Answer: Rice, wheat, potatoes, etc.)
- Which vitamin is essential for good eyesight? (Answer: Vitamin A)
- How many calories does one gram of fat provide? (Answer: 9 calories)
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