Nutritionist Exam Short Answers Summary1* What are the three basic ponents of nutrition?The three basic ponents of nutrition are carbohydrates, proteins, and fats* Carbohydrates provide energy and are the main source of fuel for the body* Proteins are essential for building and repairing body tissues* Fats are essential for insulation, energy storage, and hormone production*2* What is the Remended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults?The Remended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults is the estimated amount of a nutrient that is needed to maintain good health* It is based on age, sex, and tivity level* The RDA is the minimum amount of a nutrient needed to prevent deficiencies, but it is not necessarily the optimal amount for all individuals*3* What is the difference between a calorie and a kilocalorie?A calorie (cal) is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius* A kilocalorie (kcal) is equal to 1,000 calories and is the amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree Celsius*4* What is the difference between mronutrients and micronutrients?Mronutrients are nutrients that provide energy to the body, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats* Micronutrients are nutrients that are needed in smaller amounts, such as vitamins and minerals*5* What is the difference between an essential nutrient and a non-essential nutrient?An essential nutrient is a nutrient that must be obtained from the diet because the body cannot produce it* Non-essential nutrients are nutrients that can be made by the body and do not need to be obtained from the diet*