Food Functions: Physiological 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 covers key concepts related to the physiological functions of food, including providing energy, promoting growth, and ensuring body maintenance. Attempt all questions and click “Submit Quiz” to see your score and download a PDF of your answers.
Understanding the Physiological Functions of Food
Food is essential for life, not just to satisfy hunger, but to perform critical functions within our bodies. These are known as the physiological functions of food, which can be broadly categorized into three main groups: providing energy, promoting growth and repair, and regulating body processes for maintenance and protection.
1. Food for Energy
Our bodies need a constant supply of energy to perform all functions, from involuntary actions like breathing and heartbeat to voluntary activities like walking, studying, and playing. This energy is measured in calories (or kilocalories).
- Carbohydrates: These are the body’s primary and most efficient source of energy. They are found in foods like cereals (rice, wheat), starchy vegetables (potatoes), and sugars. They provide instant energy for our daily activities.
- Fats: Fats are a concentrated source of energy. They provide more than double the energy of carbohydrates per gram. They also act as an energy reserve, insulate the body, and protect vital organs. Sources include oils, butter, ghee, and nuts.
2. Food for Growth and Body Maintenance
Our bodies are constantly growing and repairing themselves. New cells are built, and old or damaged tissues are replaced. This process requires specific nutrients known as body-building foods.
- Proteins: Proteins are the main building blocks of the body. They are essential for the growth of muscles, bones, skin, and hair. They are also crucial for repairing tissues after an injury or illness. Major sources include milk, eggs, meat, fish, pulses (dals), and soyabean.
- Minerals: Certain minerals like calcium and phosphorus are vital for building strong bones and teeth.
3. Food for Protection and Regulation (Body Maintenance)
To function correctly and protect itself from diseases, the body needs regulatory and protective foods. These nutrients don’t provide energy but are vital for various chemical processes and for building a strong immune system.
- Vitamins and Minerals: These are called micronutrients because they are needed in small amounts. They help regulate metabolism, nerve function, and blood clotting. They also boost our immunity to fight off infections. Fruits, vegetables, and milk are rich sources of various vitamins and minerals.
- Water: Water is a crucial nutrient that regulates body temperature, transports other nutrients to cells, and helps remove waste products.
- Fibre (Roughage): Fibre does not get digested but is essential for proper bowel movement and preventing constipation. It is found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Nutrient Function Summary Table
| Nutrient Group | Primary Function | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Energy-giving | Rice, Wheat, Potato, Sugar |
| Fats | Energy-giving (concentrated) | Oil, Butter, Nuts, Ghee |
| Proteins | Body-building, repair | Pulses, Milk, Eggs, Meat |
| Vitamins & Minerals | Protective, regulatory | Fruits, Vegetables, Milk |
| Water | Regulatory, transport | Drinking water, Juices |
Quick Revision Points
- The three main physiological functions of food are: providing energy, building the body, and protection/regulation.
- Carbohydrates are the main source of energy.
- Proteins are essential for growth and repair of body tissues.
- Fats are a concentrated source of energy and act as a reserve.
- Vitamins and minerals are needed for protection against diseases and regulating body functions.
- Water is essential for transport, temperature regulation, and removing waste.
Extra Practice Questions
- Why are proteins often called “body-building” foods?
- Explain the difference between the energy provided by carbohydrates and fats.
- What is the role of roughage in our diet, even though it is not digested?
- Name two minerals required for healthy bones and teeth.
- Why is it important to drink plenty of water every day?
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