5. GOOD VS. BAD

Fat is broken down into smaller particles by bile then absorbed through the intestinal walls into the bloodstream.  Protein is broken down into amino acids by enzymes and then absorbed in the small intestines.  Carbohydrates are broken down into small sugars and is absorbed through the small intestine walls into our bloodstream. In regards to good and bad fats, our text says “limiting saturated fats or trans fats and using monounsaturated fats or polyunsaturated fats instead to protect your health, you can generally judge by the hardness of the fats which ones choose.  Olive oil, mostly monounsaturated fat, turns cloudy in the refrigerator while polyunsaturated vegetable oil stays clear” (Sizer & Whitney, 2012). Fiber is beneficial because it can absorb large amounts of water in the bowels, and this makes stools softer and easier to pass.  According to a health website in the regarding the benefits of fiber, “getting enough fiber in a diet can lower the risk of developing certain conditions: heart disease, cancer, diabetes, diverticular disease, gallstones and kidney stones” (Slowik, 2012). 

Sizer, F. S., & Whitney, E. (2012). Nutrition: Concepts and Controversies (12th ed.). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

Slowik, G. (2012, Mar 22). What Are The Health Benefits Of Fiber? Retrieved Mar 5, 2013, from E Health MD: http://ehealthmd.com/content/what-are-health-benefits-fiber#axzz2NIMKvxDo